Manchester United, one of the top teams in the English Premier League, is facing internal chaos ahead of their UEFA Europa League clash with Fenerbahçe in the third week. Under the management of Erik ten Hag, United has had a poor start to the Premier League season, which has cast doubt over the Dutch manager’s future at the club.
United has won only two of their first seven Premier League matches, leading to growing concerns.
Talks with Potential Successor
Despite signing a one-year contract extension with Ten Hag after United’s FA Cup victory last season, the club is reportedly in discussions with a potential successor. Sir Jim Ratcliffe, one of the club’s stakeholders, and the Manchester United board are said to be negotiating with this candidate, signaling that Ten Hag’s position is under serious threat.
Squad Changes After Porto Draw
Following a 3-3 draw against Porto, Ten Hag made some controversial changes to the lineup for the weekend’s match against Aston Villa. Lisandro Martinez and Matthijs de Ligt, who did not start against Villa, were replaced by Harry Maguire and Jonny Evans. England international Marcus Rashford also found himself sidelined as Ten Hag opted for a midfield reshuffle.
Rumors of Being Dropped
The absence of Martinez and De Ligt in the starting XI against Aston Villa sparked rumors, with Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher suggesting that the duo had been “dropped” from the squad entirely.
Players in Shock
According to a recent report by the Daily Mail, Manchester United players are reportedly “shocked” by Ten Hag’s “confusing” rotation policy. The players are said to be unhappy with being dropped from the squad due to what the manager perceives as fatigue.
As Manchester United prepares for their crucial Europa League match against Fenerbahçe, these internal tensions may play a significant role in the team’s performance.