In a defiant stand, Erik ten Hag, Manchester United‘s manager, expressed his unwavering determination to steer the club out of troubled waters after a humbling defeat to Newcastle in the Carabao Cup.
The loss marked the second successive 3-0 home defeat for the Red Devils, an unprecedented slump not witnessed since 1962, and a dismal record of losing five out of their first 10 matches at Old Trafford, a feat last achieved in 1930.
Ten Hag, known for his unwavering spirit, faced a barrage of questions about his tenure and the mounting criticism from pundits.
The Dutchman said, “I am a fighter, and I know it is not always going to go up, and we have had a lot of setbacks this season,” in response to a question concerning the importance of being granted additional time. Additionally, you must cope with it; nevertheless, this is never a justification.
He added, “I know when there are setbacks, but even then you have to get results. Sunday and tonight were far from that, so we have to do things right at a certain level, the minimum level to win games.”
With the critics circling and doubts arising about his managerial capabilities, Ten Hag didn’t flinch. “I understand it when the results are not there; it is also a logical process that they are questioning that,” he admitted.
“I know I can succeed. I’ve done that at all my clubs and here last year, but we’re in a terrible situation. I take responsibility.
Ten Hag sees it as a challenge and a battle he is motivated to win rather than a setback. It presents a challenge to me. I fight because I’m a fighter. I need my teammates and me to share responsibilities and battle together to succeed.”
The recent losses have highlighted significant issues within the Manchester United squad, with poor defending at the core.
Goals from Miguel Almirón, Lewis Hall, and Joe Willock against Newcastle were all attributed to lax United defending.
Ten Hag minced no words, stating, “It is below the standards everyone expects from Manchester United. It is not good enough by far. We have to put it right. It is my team, and they are not performing.”
In stark contrast, Eddie Howe, Newcastle’s manager, had every reason to wear a smile. “A massive performance from the players.
I can’t credit them enough,” he praised his team after their stunning victory over the struggling giants of Manchester United.
As the Carabao Cup progresses, Newcastle has been drawn away to Chelsea in the quarter-finals, while West Ham, who recently eliminated Arsenal, will travel to face Liverpool.
The competition promises more thrilling clashes as the underdogs continue to shake the established order.
But for Ten Hag and Manchester United, the road ahead remains uncertain, with their resilient manager resolute in his fight to restore the club’s former glory.
