Erik Ten Hag’s first season at Manchester United has been a tumultuous one. With an uncertain future and a less than convincing Premier League start, Ten Hag is now faced with a critical test in the form of Nottingham Forest.
His summer transfer window saw the arrival of players accustomed to his Ajax style, such as Onana, Mount, and Hojlund. Ten Hag’s decision-making and philosophy will be put to the test as he attempts to prove his style is the best way forward for the club.
Key Takeaways
– The investigation surrounding Mason Greenwood and uncertainty surrounding the club’s takeover have affected Manchester United’s start to the season.
– Erik ten Hag has high expectations for this season and expects improvements from himself and his team, especially with a squad formed in his image.
– The arrivals of Andre Onana and Mason Mount have had mixed impacts on the team, with Onana impressing but Mount upsetting the balance of the midfield.
– Scott McTominay’s role in Ten Hag’s plans is uncertain, as he was an unused substitute against Tottenham and represents a symbol of the past that Ten Hag wants to move away from. However, he might be needed against Nottingham Forest to reduce the gaps between midfield and attack.
Manchester United’s Start to the Season
Manchester United’s start to the season has been far from convincing. There have been several challenges, including an uncertain takeover and an investigation into Mason Greenwood. On top of that, they had a fortunate win against Wolves on opening weekend, followed by a deserved loss against Tottenham. The loss was due to poor finishing and a weak midfield.
Despite these challenges, Erik Ten Hag remains adamant that improvements can still be made. In the summer transfer window, he brought in Onana, Mount, and Hojlund. These signings have given him a squad that is more accustomed to Ajax’s style of play.
However, it remains to be seen if these signings can fill the gaps in the midfield and create a new style of play for United. Ten Hag faces a critical test against Nottingham Forest. His decisions in the transfer market could prove pivotal in determining the outcome.
Erik Ten Hag’s Expectations for This Season
He has expected improvements from this season, with a squad formed in his image and transfers like Onana, Mount, and Hojlund backed in the summer.
Erik ten Hag has been keen to usher in a new style of play at Manchester United, with a chaotic transfer window in 2022 bringing in players accustomed to his Amsterdam style.
Ten Hag’s long-term goals were balanced against the short-term reality of needing to win games. His pragmatic approach was evident last season following the Brentford defeat.
Players like Fred, Sabitzer, and Weghorst are no longer at the club, and now Ten Hag must test his philosophy and decision-making against Nottingham Forest.
Impact of Andre Onana and Mason Mount
Andre Onana and Mason Mount have had a significant impact on Manchester United this season.
Onana has been an impressive addition to the squad, providing a reliable presence between the sticks.
Mount’s arrival has caused an upset to the balance of the midfield, with Casemiro being left isolated in his defensive duties.
Despite this, Mount’s positive influence has yet to be felt in the team, with his injury leaving Ten Hag in a precarious position.
There is no doubt that Onana and Mount have had an effect on Ten Hag’s plans, but whether this will be a positive one remains to be seen.
Scott McTominay’s Role in Ten Hag’s Plans
Scott McTominay has been a key figure in Ten Hag’s plans this season. However, his role has recently been reduced to that of an unused substitute. This comes as Ten Hag looks to move away from the long-standing image of the past regime and usher in a new style of play.
McTominay could help bridge the gaps between the midfield and attack, but Ten Hag has yet to deploy him. With Mason Mount’s injury, Ten Hag may have to rely on McTominay against Nottingham Forest to add stability to the midfield.
It remains to be seen if Ten Hag’s decisions in the transfer market will pay off or if his philosophy will be tested in this critical match.
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