BREAKING NEWS: “You need to make a tough choice. Although he just joined, you’ll have to let him go if you want to keep your job. He clearly hasn’t met the club’s expectations,” said Gabriel Agbonlahor, advising Erik ten Hag to make difficult decisions regarding a struggling Manchester United player.

Manchester United once again found themselves in a precarious situation during their Europa League match against Porto, where they squandered a two-goal lead, continuing a trend of underperformance that has marred their season. After a strong start, the Red Devils failed to maintain their dominance, allowing Porto to exploit their defensive weaknesses and turn the game around to lead 3-2.

A late equalizer from Harry Maguire salvaged a point for United, but the result did little to relieve the growing pressure on Erik ten Hag, whose future as manager is becoming increasingly uncertain.

Ten Hag’s job security is under question due to United’s poor form, not only in the Premier League but also in the Europa League, where they have yet to secure a win. Each game reveals more flaws, particularly in the defense and midfield, prompting doubts about Ten Hag’s tactics and team choices.

Matthijs de Ligt, a high-profile summer signing from Bayern Munich, has notably struggled to adapt to the demands of English football, contributing to the team’s defensive instability. His failure to integrate smoothly into the squad has been a significant factor in United’s difficulties at the back.

Pundit Owen Hargreaves has been vocal about the need for changes, particularly ahead of United’s upcoming Premier League match against Aston Villa. Speaking on TNT Sports, Hargreaves suggested that Harry Maguire, who played a key role in securing the draw against Porto, should replace De Ligt in the starting lineup. Hargreaves highlighted De Ligt’s struggles against Porto’s physicality, especially in dealing with Samu Omorodion, who scored twice.

De Ligt’s struggles at United have raised concerns, as he was expected to be a stabilizing force in the defense but has yet to meet expectations.

His difficulty in adapting to the fast pace of English football and his disconnect with teammates have been evident, particularly in crucial moments where United have conceded important goals. As United prepare for their match against Aston Villa, Ten Hag faces a tough decision: continue with De Ligt or turn to Maguire for defensive leadership in a critical game.

This fixture against Villa could be a pivotal moment for United’s season and for Ten Hag’s future. A win might restore confidence, but another poor result could deepen the crisis, raising serious doubts about Ten Hag’s ability to lead the team.