BREAKING NEWS: “You take off a player who’s finally hitting his stride and becoming what we need, just because of a silly reason, especially when your job is at stake. I don’t think ETH knows what he’s doing anymore.” ~Zlatan Ibrahimovic

Erik Ten Hag’s decisions have sparked outrage among Manchester United fans, many of whom are questioning whether he is losing his grip on the club’s direction. This frustration boiled over after the team’s recent match against FC Porto in the Champions League, where Ten Hag made a highly controversial substitution. Rasmus Højlund, one of the few players showing promise for the struggling squad, scored twice and gave fans hope for the future.

However, despite his impactful performance, Ten Hag replaced him at halftime, citing tactical reasons. This decision left fans and pundits alike bewildered, as it seemed counterproductive, particularly given the importance of the match.

The dissatisfaction isn’t limited to just one game. Fans have increasingly voiced concerns about Ten Hag’s inconsistency, particularly his inability to establish a clear starting XI or tactical approach. His frequent changes in personnel and lack of a settled formation have left the team without any real rhythm or identity. As a result, United has often looked disjointed on the pitch, with players appearing unsure of their roles.

Football pundits have been just as critical of Ten Hag’s leadership. After United’s 3-2 loss to Porto, Gary Neville commented on the chaos within the team, highlighting the absence of a coherent strategy.

Roy Keane echoed these concerns, suggesting that the team has become “rudderless” and raising the question of whether Ten Hag has lost the dressing room’s support. Both pundits, along with others, have pointed out the constant inconsistency and lack of a clear plan as significant issues under Ten Hag’s tenure.

To make matters worse, rumors suggest that the Manchester United board is losing patience with the Dutch manager. Sources indicate that Ten Hag’s position is in jeopardy, with his fate likely dependent on the results of the next few matches, particularly against Brentford and Copenhagen.

Though injuries, such as Lisandro Martinez’s long-term absence and Sergio Reguilon’s ongoing sidelining, have compounded Ten Hag’s challenges, fans argue that these issues reveal deeper flaws in his management. Once seen as the figure to restore United’s former glory, Ten Hag is now at risk of joining the list of managers who failed to bring the club back to the top.