Manchester United’s recent defeat against West Ham is yet another blow to manager Erik ten Hag’s credibility. The team’s inability to score for four consecutive games in all competitions is a clear indication of their offensive struggles. Despite having the majority of possession for 72 minutes and fielding their best attacking players, United failed to create significant opportunities. This defeat follows their previous goalless draw against Liverpool. Jarrod Bowen’s opening goal, assisted by Lucas Paqueta, and Mohammed Kudus’ subsequent strike secured a 2-0 victory for West Ham, catapulting them above United in the Premier League standings.
A Dismal Display from United’s Attackers
In a disappointing turn of events, Kudus and his former Ajax teammate, Edson Álvarez, outshone United’s players. Erik ten Hag’s decision to prioritize Antony over Kudus is now under scrutiny. Antony, a €95 million signing in 2022, has proven to be inconsistent and unimpressive. Alejandro Garnacho showed some promise as an attacking outlet, but his lack of end product contributed to a dearth of service. Additionally, Rasmus Hojlund, a £72 million summer signing, has yet to make an impact in the Premier League, failing to score or provide an assist in his 15 appearances. Captain Bruno Fernandes also struggled to make an impact during the game.
A Collective Decline
While individual players must take responsibility for their dip in form, the overall slump reflects poorly on Ten Hag’s leadership. Manchester United’s goal-scoring record this season is abysmal, with only 18 goals in 18 league matches. Remarkably, this tally is only two more goals than bottom-placed Burnley and equal to Crystal Palace, sitting at 15th. The team’s goal difference stands at -4, an embarrassing figure for a club with aspirations of a top-four finish. Last season, Ten Hag’s squad managed a mere 58 goals in 38 matches, the lowest among the top six teams. Choosing to sign Hojlund instead of pursuing a proven goal scorer like Tottenham’s Harry Kane now looks like a grave error.
The Struggling Forward Line
The struggles of United’s forward line are evident. Antony’s inconsistency, Garnacho’s need for better coaching, and Rashford’s loss of form all contribute to the team’s declining performance. As a collective, they appear lost and devoid of confidence. Ten Hag insists that the squad possesses the scoring abilities necessary for success, but their output fails to reflect this belief. The players must regain their self-assurance and improve their presence in the box, particularly within the six-yard area.
Ten Hag’s decision to substitute Hojlund, despite the forward’s illness during the week, raises questions about his ability to manage the team effectively. With two more games to play in the current week, there is no room for self-pity. The responsibility lies with the players themselves and the collective accountability they must embrace as Manchester United representatives. However, the manager must also be held accountable for the team’s struggles and find solutions to break the cycle of disappointment.
The match against West Ham was largely uneventful, with little excitement for spectators. The Saturday lunchtime kick-off time, coupled with the packed December schedule, likely contributed to the lackluster affair. In fact, the past eight games with a similar kick-off time have seen only two first-half goals. Unfortunately, United’s record fares even worse, with just two first-half goals in their past nine league matches. Despite glimpses of urgency in their play during the second half, United’s expected goals (xG) figure remained a paltry 0.88. Their highest xG in the last four games was a mere 1.16 against Bournemouth.
A Glimmer of Hope Lost
While Willy Kambwala’s debut showcased his competence as a center-back and Kobbie Mainoo provided composure in midfield, the positives for United were few and far between. With more losses this season than in their entire previous campaign, United’s struggles continue to mount. They must now face an in-form Aston Villa at Old Trafford on Boxing Day, with hopes of reversing their fortunes.
Manchester United’s current predicament is indicative of a managerial crisis. Erik ten Hag must find a way to rejuvenate his team’s performance and instill belief in his players. With crucial matches ahead, the pressure on Ten Hag to deliver results is mounting. Manchester United’s renowned history and ambitious goals demand a swift response and a return to their winning ways.
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