Manchester United have tasted their first defeat of the season following the 2-1 loss to Brighton on Saturday. Even though the red devils didn’t play badly there were still issues in both defense and attack. If Ten Hag is to get the team figting for a Champions League place there are plenty of issues he needs to address. Here we take a look at three important areas to focus on in order to get the team going.
- Stop the false 9 experiment
In the opening two games of the season Ten Hag chose to use Bruno Fernandes as a false 9. However, that experiment didn’t seem ideal for the team. In the game against Fulham it was Joshua Zirkzee who came off the bench to score the winner. United also got the equalizer after his introduction on Saturday.
Zirkzee is a versatile striker capable of forming relationships with the wingers. His dangerous runs and ability to alternate positions with Rashford caused disruptions for the Brigthon defense. If it wasn’t for the unfortunate offised call Man United would have been 2-1 up in the game.
The Dutch striker has proved himself a valuable member of the team in the opening two games. He has earned the chance to start games and this is something Ten Hag should consider ahead of Sunday’s big game against Liverpool.
- Land on a back four
One of the biggest setbacks last season was the numerous injuries Ten Hag had to deal with. Because of these issues the Dutch manager had to chop and change his back four several times. This has caused a disruption in the team. The side wasn’t able to have a rock solid defense and conceeded too many opportunites and goals.
This season it is important for Ten Hag to make sure he has his favoured back 4 available in most games. Too many changes will affect the understanding of the team and cause issues. It is important to continue with what the manager feels is the right pick and stick with that.
- Avoid a lapse in concentration in the last minutes
Under Ten Hag Man United have conceded 6 last minute goals that made them lose games. That number was only 2 between 1992 and 2022. It is important for the side to keep up the concentration at all moments.
Joao Pedro’s winner for Brighton on Saturday was a clear example of the apparent issue facing Man United. Three Brighton players were free in the box while 8 Man United players watched Poro score the winner with a clinical header. It is important for the manager to keep his players alert in all situations to keep results in their favour.
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