Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is pleading with fans to be patient with him after the team’s recent disappointing results. The team’s 2-2 draw with Bournemouth on Saturday marked their fourth consecutive game without a win, leaving them in seventh place in the Premier League. Their chances of qualifying for the Champions League are dwindling, and they may even miss out on the Europa League.
Ten Hag acknowledged that the result against Bournemouth was not good enough and that the team needs to improve. He emphasized the importance of taking control of the game, not allowing the opposition chances, and scoring goals. The manager expressed his disappointment in dropping points in games where they were in winning positions, and stressed the need to play consistently well throughout the entire match.
Despite the disappointing performance, Ten Hag found solace in the team’s resilience and character, as they twice fought back from losing positions against Bournemouth. However, he noted that going into losing positions was unnecessary and highlighted the importance of not losing possession in critical areas. The manager praised the team for their efforts to fight back but emphasized the need for improvement to avoid unnecessary setbacks.
In the first half against Bournemouth, United struggled to maintain organization and were fortunate to only be trailing 2-1 at halftime. Ten Hag admitted that there were gaps in their defense, particularly on the right side, which allowed the opposition to capitalize. However, he commended his players for improving in the second half and ultimately salvaging a point with a penalty from Bruno Fernandes. The team was instructed to stay in formation, maintain position, and improve defensively in the second half.
Ten Hag highlighted the performances of Harry Maguire and Bruno Fernandes, noting Maguire’s leadership and defensive contributions despite a first-half struggle with injury. Fernandes, on the other hand, scored twice and provided energy and creativity to the team. The manager expressed satisfaction with his players’ efforts and acknowledged that the penalties awarded in recent games, including the one won against Bournemouth, were debatable. Overall, Ten Hag is focused on making improvements and turning the team’s fortunes around as they look to climb the Premier League table.
