Erik ten Hag Under Intense Pressure as Manchester United Struggles in Premier League

Erik ten Hag, the manager of Manchester United, is facing unprecedented pressure following the team’s dismal start to the Premier League season. After a 2-1 defeat at West Ham on Sunday, Manchester United finds itself in 14th place in the league, with only 11 points from nine matches. This is the team’s second-worst start to a Premier League season in terms of points total, surpassing only the 2019/20 season when they had 10 points at this stage.

The latest loss was marked by controversy, with a late penalty awarded to West Ham after a VAR review. The penalty, converted by Jarrod Bowen, was given despite initial hesitation from the on-field referee, David Coote, who was overruled by VAR official Michael Oliver. Ten Hag criticized the decision, stating that the process was flawed and that the referee should have shown more personality in sticking to his original call.

Former Manchester United player and current Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville has expressed severe concerns about Ten Hag’s future, stating that the pressure on the manager will become “unbearable” if Manchester United loses to Chelsea next Sunday. Neville emphasized that the team’s performance and results are not acceptable for a club of Manchester United’s stature.

Despite the poor results, Ten Hag remains defiant, insisting that his team was the better side in the match against West Ham. He highlighted that Manchester United dominated the game with 57% possession and 18 shots on goal but failed to capitalize on their chances. Ten Hag urged his team to stay together and keep fighting, emphasizing the need for more character in the face of adversity.

The fans and other pundits are increasingly critical of Ten Hag’s management, with many calling for his dismissal. The team’s recent form, including only four wins in 14 matches this season, has led to widespread dissatisfaction among supporters.