Manchester United’s recent 1-1 draw with Twente has raised questions about the team’s trajectory this season.
- After an optimistic start following an FA Cup victory, concerns are growing at Old Trafford.
- Manager Erik ten Hag and Christian Eriksen commented that Twente ‘wanted it more’ in the Europa League match.
- Despite defensive improvements, United has won only three of their first eight games this season.
- Struggles in goal-scoring and underperformance in expected goals (xG) metrics are evident.
Manchester United’s latest 1-1 draw with Twente in the Europa League has reignited concerns about the club’s performance trajectory this season. Following an FA Cup final victory and significant financial investments in new signings, the season began with optimism. However, just seven games in, familiar issues are resurfacing, leading to increased scrutiny.
Post-match, manager Erik ten Hag and midfielder Christian Eriksen openly admitted that Twente seemed more determined during the match. ‘It was far from good enough,’ stated Eriksen. He emphasised that the team appeared less eager, saying, ‘They looked like they wanted it more – that can’t be right.’ The sentiment of disappointment was clear despite the draw. Ten Hag supported Eriksen’s observation, echoing that facing such a determined opponent showed areas needing improvement.
In evaluating the early performance, it is noted that Manchester United has secured only three victories out of their first eight matches this season. This outcome is fewer compared to the same stage in either of Ten Hag’s previous seasons. The team has recorded two draws and three losses, though some improvement in defensive solidity has been observed.
Concerns extend to the attacking front. The team has scored more than one goal in only two matches this season, specifically against League One Barnsley in the EFL Cup and Southampton in the Premier League. Notably, no individual player has scored more than one goal in the Premier League. Alejandro Garnacho, with four goals overall, leads the team’s scoring chart, but he has not consistently started matches.
Data analysis reveals that Manchester United has underperformed in expected goals (xG) in five out of their seven competitive matches. The team’s chance conversion rate stands at a mere seven per cent. This inefficiency in front of goal has been a point of concern. Ten Hag pointed out after the Twente match, ‘They fought for every yard and we didn’t. Ninety-nine per cent is not enough.’ The manager acknowledged that the team must exhibit a stronger mentality to convert opportunities.
Further comments from former United players highlight the urgency for more reliable goal-scoring. Owen Hargreaves remarked, ‘For all the firepower Man United had, even though they had 19 shots, it didn’t feel like it was good enough.’ Hargreaves stressed the need for players to step up in crucial moments, historically a hallmark of Manchester United’s success.
Upcoming fixtures will be a significant test of Ten Hag’s management. Matches against Tottenham, Porto, and Aston Villa are anticipated to be challenging. Despite improvements in defence, such as a reduced goals-per-game conceded rate, the team’s overall performance needs to become more consistent. As Ten Hag stated, ‘We are very ambitious and when you have ambition, you have to perform.’
The coming weeks will be critical for Manchester United as they seek to convert ambition into consistent, winning performances.
