New Manager, Same United

The English Premier league officially kicked off on Friday 5th August with Arsenal overcoming Crystal Palace in a 2-0 win.Sunday saw Manchester united Manager Erik Ten Hag humbled by Brighton at Old Trafford in a 2-1 “ unnecessary “ defeat. win.Sunday saw Manchester united Manager Erik Ten Hag humbled by Brighton at Old Trafford in a 2-1 “ unnecessary “ defeat.

Manchester united continues to witness unwanted records. Last season the Red Devils finished Sixth with 58 points, their lowest premier league finish ever.In 2013/14 season under David Moyes United finished with just 64 points.

When Ten Hag came in, the positive feeling has been hoovering around. This feeling was intensified by the pre-season wins against Liverpool , Crystal Palace and Melbourne Victory. Thus hopes were high in the clouds going into the opening game with Brighton on Sunday.

However, not all that glitters is gold. After 30 minutes into the game,Pascal Gross scored for Brighton. Nine minutes later he added another goal .Despite an own goal by Brighton’s Marc Allister in the 68 minute, Brighton held on for their first ever away win at Old Trafford.

Same United : What is Really Wrong?

To begin with, a number of key players including Paul Pogba, Nemanja Matic Jesse Lingard ,Edinson Cavani and co departed Old Trafford. Massive recruitment of new players was/is expected especially in the Midfield area.

Manchester United Chief Executive Officer Richard Arnold assured the fans that funds are available to bring in new players. However, as Erik Ten Hag stressed, they can not just bring in any player but the right players.

As it stands, one of the “right players “ who would fit Ten Hag’s system of playing is Frenkie De Jong.The latter is hesitant about leaving Barcelona for United mainly because Barca owes him some money. The possibility of playing Europa League is also assumed to be a stumbling block in the deal.

The only transfers United has been able to conclude this summer in term of bringing in new faces include: signing of Feyenoord Left back Tyrell Malacia,Veteran Attacking Midfielder Christian Eriksen from Brentford and Argentine Center back Lisandro Martinez.

Sunday’s performance by the usual Midfield pairing of Scot Mctomminay and Fred aka “ McFred” highlighted the urgent need of a new world class Midfielder. A number of Football pundits including united Legend Gary Neville were quick to criticize the duo.

Another aspect that seemed and is a real worry to United is the Attacking force. With Martial out due to injury,Cristtiano Ronaldo wanting to leave,something needs to be done as soon as possible. With the summer transfer window closing on Thursday 1 September 2022,it remains to be seen which more additions United can make.

United is back in action this Saturday 13 August against Brentford in an away match fixture .