Following Manchester United’s convincing defeat to West Ham on Saturday, Paul Scholes criticized Erik ten Hag for what he deemed as a “naive” approach in away games, citing ongoing difficulties against stronger opponents.
Under Ten Hag’s management, United has faced challenges away from home, evident in recent losses to West Ham, Tottenham, Arsenal, and Newcastle this season. The Premier League travel woes extend to last season, including a 7-0 loss at Anfield, and their early Champions League exit was partly attributed to poor away performances.
Speaking on TNT Sports, Scholes directed his critique towards Ten Hag, expressing concerns about the team’s tactical approach in challenging away fixtures: “They struggled last year in the big games, and I also felt that it was naive going to good away grounds and playing with one holding midfielder and the rest being attacking.” Scholes emphasized the difficulty of employing such a strategy against top English teams.
For the West Ham match, Ten Hag unexpectedly included 19-year-old defender Willy Kambwala in the starting lineup due to Raphael Varane’s illness and Harry Maguire’s suspension. Scholes expressed initial apprehension about United’s chances, stating, “West Ham is difficult to play against, but they also have brilliant forward players that can cause you trouble.”
These concerns proved valid as United suffered a 2-0 defeat, leaving them in eighth place. The outcome increases pressure on Ten Hag, who now faces heightened scrutiny. With an upcoming Boxing Day clash against Aston Villa at Old Trafford, Ten Hag must promptly address the team’s performance issues.
The disappointing results coincide with Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s anticipated acquisition of a twenty-five percent share in the club, potentially impacting the team’s direction. As the January transfer window approaches, Ten Hag’s position becomes even more precarious, with the need for improvements and strategic adjustments to revive United’s form on the road and at home.
In light of these challenges, Ten Hag’s ability to find the right balance in tactics and address away-game struggles becomes pivotal for Manchester United’s success in the remainder of the season.
