Paul Scholes, the Manchester United legend, has labeled Ajax manager Erik ten Hag’s team as “unconventional” based on the team’s recent performances. Despite Manchester United’s recent victories, Scholes expressed his lack of enthusiasm for the team’s display. In their latest match against Luton Town, Rasmus Hojlund emerged as the match-winner with a two-goal performance. However, Scholes remained skeptical of the overall team performance.
Hojlund’s quick-fire double came within seven minutes of the game. However, Luton Town’s Carlton Morris equalized soon after, shifting the momentum in favor of the home side. At halftime, the statistics showed that Luton Town had 11 shots compared to Manchester United’s eight, and the home team enjoyed 60% possession.
Scholes took to Instagram, where he has a million followers, to express his thoughts on the match. He referred to Manchester United as a “weird team” and suggested that they could be the only team capable of winning 5-0 and then getting hammered.
This analysis of Manchester United’s performance against Luton Town is not an isolated incident. In their previous match against Aston Villa, despite a 2-1 victory, Manchester United were out-shot and out-possessed by their opponents. Similarly, in a 3-0 win over West Ham, they had only 12 shots compared to West Ham’s 22.
Digging deeper into the statistics, it is evident that only four teams – West Ham, Sheffield United, Burnley, and Luton Town – have conceded fewer shots than Manchester United this season. This defensive solidity has contributed to their recent success. However, when it comes to expected goals per game, Manchester United’s average is just 1.49, ranking them 11th in the Premier League table.
While Scholes may be critical of Manchester United’s performances, Ajax manager Erik ten Hag would likely disagree. Ten Hag would argue that his team creates better quality scoring opportunities than their opponents. However, for now, Hojlund’s impressive performances have helped mask any underlying issues in Manchester United’s gameplay.
Manchester United’s vulnerability in defense is evident from the number of opportunities they have given up this season. Despite their recent victories, there is room for improvement in their overall performance.
In conclusion, Paul Scholes has criticized Manchester United’s recent displays as “unconventional,” despite their winning streak. The statistics highlight their defensive solidity but also reveal a vulnerability in terms of shots conceded and expected goals per game. While Ajax manager Erik ten Hag may have a different perspective, it is clear that Manchester United still have areas to address in order to consistently perform at their best.