Understanding Manchester United’s Tactical Evolution Under Erik Ten Hag
Manchester United’s recent goalless draw against Aston Villa has stirred a complex conversation about the tactical direction of the team under Erik Ten Hag. While the match showcased a noticeable improvement from the previous heavy defeat against Tottenham Hotspur, questions remain about the team’s overall forward play and Ten Hag’s future as manager.
Assessing the Improvement Against Aston Villa
The match against Aston Villa was a pivotal moment for Ten Hag, who faced mounting pressure following a string of disappointing performances. The defensive setup against Villa appeared more organized and disciplined compared to previous outings. This shift suggests that Ten Hag is adapting his strategies to fortify the team’s defensive capabilities, especially after the alarming loss to Spurs where United’s pressing game was exposed.
Despite the defensive solidity, which drew praise from pundits and supporters alike, the lack of attacking threat was glaring. The forwards struggled to convert possession into clear goal-scoring opportunities, indicating that while the team can defend, creating chances remains an uphill battle. This duality raises questions about whether Ten Hag’s tactical adjustments are sufficient to secure his position at the helm.
Rasmus Hojlund: A Tactical Solution?
The introduction of Rasmus Hojlund appears crucial to United’s pressing strategy. In his first start of the season, Hojlund’s ability to lead the press proved effective, especially in comparison to previous matches where the team struggled to press cohesively. His understanding of when to press not only revitalized the forward line but also allowed Bruno Fernandes to revert to a more familiar role, enhancing the team’s overall structure.
Hojlund’s performance showcased a significant tactical shift from a flat 4-4-2 to a more dynamic 4-4-1-1 formation. This adjustment enabled Fernandes to drop deeper, providing additional support in midfield while maintaining a forward threat. The team’s pressing improved, cutting down Villa’s midfield options, which was a stark contrast to the previous match against Spurs where United was left exposed.
The Need for Collective Movement in Attack
While the improvements in pressing were evident, Manchester United’s attacking players displayed a concerning tendency towards individualism. Despite their talent, players like Hojlund, Fernandes, and Marcus Rashford often made selfish runs that hindered the team’s attacking potential. For instance, Rashford found himself isolated against multiple Villa defenders due to a lack of coordinated movement from his teammates.
To elevate their attacking play, United must foster a more sacrificial approach to off-the-ball movement. This involves players making runs that not only create space for themselves but also for others. Alejandro Garnacho, for example, must learn to vary his runs, often opting for back post movements that can stretch opposing defenses and create openings for attacking players following in.
Adopting a Pep Guardiola-Inspired Strategy
Another noticeable change was in the distribution and positioning from the back, particularly from goalkeeper Andre Onana. Emulating Pep Guardiola’s tactics, Onana often stepped up into the back line, adding an extra layer of support and allowing United to maintain possession under pressure. This approach created a numerical advantage in midfield, which is crucial for controlling games and building attacks from the back.
Onana’s ability to distribute the ball effectively has been one of the key reasons he was brought to Old Trafford. His performance against Villa was instrumental in allowing United to play with more confidence and structure, an aspect of their game that has been missing in previous outings.
The Need for Consistency and Trust
While the tactical shifts and player performances against Aston Villa suggest a potential turning point for Manchester United, the key to sustained success lies in consistency. The players must develop a deeper understanding and trust in one another’s movements on the pitch. This trust is essential for creating a cohesive unit that can execute Ten Hag’s tactical vision effectively.
Moreover, as Ten Hag faces crucial discussions about his future with club executives, the team’s ability to translate defensive solidity into attacking prowess will be pivotal. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if United can maintain this newfound resilience while unlocking their attacking potential in the coming matches.
In summary, while the match against Aston Villa demonstrated clear tactical improvements under Erik Ten Hag, the road ahead requires further refinement, particularly in the attacking third. The integration of Hojlund and the adaptation of Onana’s role provide a promising foundation, but collective movement and trust among the players will ultimately determine the team’s success. Only time will tell if Manchester United can find the right balance to reclaim their status among the elite in football.