Pressure mounts on the Dutchman as Manchester United faces scrutiny following a disappointing 3-0 loss to rivals Manchester City at Old Trafford. Concerns arise not only from the defeat but also the manner in which City dominated, notably with Erling Haaland’s controversial first-half penalty.
Several key United players, including Rasmus Hojlund, Alejandro Garnacho, Anthony Martial, Mason Mount, and Antony, are struggling to contribute with neither goals nor assists this season. Marcus Rashford, a prolific scorer last season, has only converted 2.3% of his shots into a single Premier League goal.
Form struggles alone don’t account for United’s seven losses across competitions; injuries have also taken a toll. Victor Lindelof played out of position at left-back due to defensive issues. Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia are unavailable for the upcoming Carabao Cup fourth-round match against Newcastle, with Aaron Wan-Bissaka also sidelined. Though nearing a return, Wan-Bissaka won’t relieve Diogo Dalot on Wednesday night.
Central defense faces challenges with Lisandro Martinez’s long-term foot injury. Against City, Harry Maguire and Jonny Evans filled the defensive void as Erik ten Hag claimed Raphael Varane’s absence was tactical, raising questions given Varane’s injury history.
Casemiro’s likely absence with an ankle injury leaves Sofyan Amrabat as the sole naturally defensive midfielder in a struggling United side.
Ten Hag opted to skip a press conference, focusing on training to prepare for a Newcastle side displaying goal-scoring prowess under Eddie Howe. The hope is that extra time on the training ground will boost confidence for a team grappling with issues both in form and fitness.
