Anne Wong
Man Utd recent match against Tottenham Hotspur raised several eyebrows. A 3-0 defeat at home left fans and analysts questioning the team’s performance on multiple fronts.
The biggest concern for the Red Devils was their lack of organization and determination, both with and without the ball, raising serious questions about their current strategy and mindset.
A Tale of Two Halves
United were dismal in possession during the first half. This lack of sharpness and creativity on the ball was palpable.
However, what was even more worrying was their performance without the ball. Their lack of organization and determination to keep the ball out of their net was stark.
Defensive Issues
Ten Hag’s side did not set up to press high, but that should not have been an issue. They started with two false nines to fill the space in front of midfield.
The problem was not their setup but their execution. They failed to win duels, track runners, and spot danger, leaving huge gaps for Spurs to exploit.
Conceding Early
The first goal conceded by United was avoidable. Van de Ven’s run should have been stopped long before he got near the box.
Despite the brilliance of his run, it was more about United’s defensive lapses. Dalot switched off, allowing Johnson to capitalize.
It’s these small but costly mistakes that are becoming a pattern for United. They need to address these issues to avoid catastrophic outcomes in future games.
Spurs’ Bravery Rewarded
Tottenham’s bravery and adventurous football paid off. Their progressive passing and high press suffocated United.
United, on the other hand, looked lost. Losing challenges, missing runners, and not knowing who to mark turned them into a disjointed unit.
Despite having a plan, United’s lack of confidence in their patterns of play was evident. This was exacerbated by the constant changes in their lineup.
Second Half Adjustments
Ten Hag made some adjustments in the second half. Bringing on Casemiro and Mount added some stability to United’s play.
For a brief period, United fought hard, pushing up the field and creating chances. However, it was too little, too late.
The question remains why this fight was missing when it was 11 vs. 11. Ten Hag needs to probe his players about this inconsistency.
Injury Challenges
United have had to adapt without their injured striker, Hojlund. His absence had a noticeable impact on their attacking options.
They resorted to using two number 10s, which has worked before but fell short this time. Their counter-attacks were ineffective without a focal point up front.
Their struggles in attack were compounded by their dismal defensive organization, making it a double whammy for Ten Hag’s side.
Where to Next?
United’s mindset is a worry. Confidence in their play is lacking, especially when building from the back.
Improvements are possible as players get used to each other, but the foundational issue of mindset remains a challenge.
Ten Hag has his work cut out to instill the fighting spirit and organization required to compete at the highest level.
Manchester United’s defeat to Tottenham is a wakeup call. There’s an urgent need for structural and mental adjustments.
Without these changes, any tactical tweaks will only provide short-term relief. The Red Devils must return to the basics and rebuild their confidence. Their future success hinges on overcoming these internal challenges.
Source: Bbc
