By Martin Graham | 6th Oct 2024
Erik ten Hag has dismissed any concerns over his future at Manchester United, stating that the club’s leadership has not indicated his position is at risk. United’s recent 0-0 draw against Aston Villa at Villa Park extended their winless run to five games, increasing pressure on the Dutchman. Despite this, Ten Hag remains confident in the support from the club’s hierarchy.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe, United’s co-owner, was in attendance for the match but remained expressionless at the final whistle. The only notable interaction came from chief executive Omar Berrada, who was seen talking to sporting director Dan Ashworth following the disappointing result. United’s current form has left them languishing in 14th place in the Premier League table, with eight points from their opening seven matches.
Ten Hag confident in leadership backing
When asked if he believed his job was in jeopardy, Ten Hag made it clear that he had received no such communication from the board. “I don’t have any sense that things are different,” he said. “They would have informed me. We have very open and transparent communication, and we speak daily.” Ten Hag emphasized the ongoing dialogue with the club’s executives, expressing confidence in their relationship.
Addressing the external speculation about his future, Ten Hag brushed off the rumors, referring to it as “external noise.” Internally, he acknowledged the team’s recent struggles but stressed that the focus remains on improving performance. “We know we have to do better, especially when it comes to scoring goals,” he said.
United’s goal-scoring drought continues
United’s attacking struggles have been one of the major talking points this season. The team has managed only eight points from seven games, their worst start since the 1989-90 season. In the current campaign, they have scored fewer than five goals and have gone three consecutive matches without finding the back of the net.
Against Aston Villa, Marcus Rashford came close on two occasions, but both efforts were saved by Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez. A late chance was also squandered when Alejandro Garnacho’s cross-field pass failed to reach Bruno Fernandes, denying United a clear opportunity.
Ten Hag admitted the team has fallen short in front of goal, but he remains focused on rectifying the situation. “We are creating chances, but in the final third, we need to be more clinical,” he said. “This is an area we have to improve on.”
Looking ahead to long-term improvement
Despite the disappointing results, Ten Hag remains committed to the long-term vision for Manchester United. In a pre-match interview with Sky Sports, he reiterated that the entire club remains united in their objectives. “We are all on the same page, and we are working through this together,” he said. “It’s a long-term process.”
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