United Manager Faces Mounting Pressure as Defensive Struggles Persist
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has urged fans to remain patient following his team’s dramatic 3-3 draw against Porto in the UEFA Europa League. A late header from Harry Maguire in the 91st minute salvaged a point for United, who had thrown away a 2-0 lead, further intensifying scrutiny on Ten Hag’s management amid a turbulent season.
United raced to an early lead with two goals in the first 20 minutes, but defensive lapses allowed Porto to claw back and take a 3-2 lead late in the second half. The pressure on Ten Hag intensified when Bruno Fernandes was sent off for a second yellow card, marking his second consecutive red card in as many games. However, Maguire’s last-minute goal kept United from suffering another damaging defeat.
Following the match, Ten Hag addressed the growing frustrations of United fans. “We will get there. Don’t judge us in this moment; judge us at the end of the season,” he said. “We are in the process, and we will improve. We have to develop and progress this team.”
The Dutchman acknowledged the defensive shortcomings that have plagued United this season, particularly in Europe, where they’ve struggled to hold leads away from home. He praised his squad’s resilience but admitted that defensive improvements are crucial. “We started the game very good, dominated, and scored two good goals. But the middle part was no good. Defensively, we have to step up,” he added.
Ten Hag’s position at the helm is becoming increasingly precarious, especially after a disappointing 3-0 home loss to Tottenham, followed by this draw against Porto. Critics, including pundit Karen Carney, have questioned his tactics and substitutions, with Carney stating, “I’m not sure if he’ll be that person at the end of the season. I don’t understand his substitutes either at times throughout the season and in particular today.”
Despite the recent struggles, Ten Hag remains optimistic about the season ahead. “We had three clean sheets not long ago, so we can defend very well. But we need to get back to those habits,” he said. “When you score three times in an away game in Europe, that should be enough to win.”
With United’s next fixtures looming, the pressure on Ten Hag to turn the team’s fortunes around continues to grow, but the manager insists the squad’s spirit and mentality will guide them through this challenging period.
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