Sky Sports has reported a growing sense of disillusionment among key players with the management style of Erik ten Hag, the manager of Manchester United. This comes in light of United's 10th defeat this season, a 1-0 loss to Newcastle.
The Red Devils have had a challenging season so far, with their performance on the pitch leaving much to be desired. The team was outplayed in all areas during their recent match against Newcastle. In an unusual turn of events, assistant boss Steve McClaren had to remind the players to acknowledge their travelling supporters at full-time.
The road ahead doesn't seem any easier for United as they face formidable opponents like Chelsea, Bayern Munich and Liverpool this month.
According to Kaveh Solhekol, Sky Sports reporter, while some stars still support Ten Hag, overall morale is low due to his "robotic" patterns and running-based training sessions. Players have reportedly complained about excessive running without understanding its purpose.
Erik ten Hag has lost half of his dressing room
ESPN adds that half of United's playing squad feels alienated by Ten Hag's approach. Some players have privately voiced concerns over his training drills at Carrington and his "cavalier" tactics on the field.
United’s defensive struggles are evident as they've conceded more goals than they've scored in league matches so far. Their Champions League results are even more concerning - conceding 14 goals in just five games makes them one of the worst defences in the competition.
Despite these challenges, Ten Hag has refrained from criticising his players publicly. ESPN sources suggest that some backroom staff believe certain stars “do not respond well to criticism.”
In an attempt to ease tensions within the dressing room, injured defender Lisandro Martinez has been reintroduced into the first-team fold. Despite being sidelined with a foot injury until next year, Martinez's return is seen as a show of support for Ten Hag.
Martinez, who previously worked with Ten Hag at Ajax, is one of his biggest supporters. His presence in the dressing room could potentially help bolster the manager's position as he prepares for crucial upcoming matches.
With mounting pressure and growing discontent among players, it remains to be seen how Ten Hag will navigate through these challenges. As United gears up to face tough opponents in their upcoming fixtures, fans and sports betting enthusiasts alike will be keenly watching how this situation unfolds.
