10.2 C
Manchester
Saturday, June 7, 2025
Other SportsManchester United slump is not acceptable - Ten Hag

Manchester United slump is not acceptable – Ten Hag

Erik ten Hag admits Manchester United’s levels have slipped since their EFL Cup win last season, a situation he describes as “not acceptable”.

United claimed their first silverware in six years by beating Newcastle at Wembley in February but have struggled since, losing the final of the FA Cup to Manchester City, suffering a 5-2 aggregate defeat to Sevilla in the Europa League quarter-finals and failing to string together a consistent run in the Premier League.

“We have dropped our levels and we have to get back to them,” said the under-pressure Dutchman.

“There are reasons for that, but still it’s not acceptable and we have to fight against it.

“We have a good foundation for the way we play, we have rules and principles and when they [the players] help and support each other, we will play better.”

United will hope to get their season back on track when they host Brentford tomorrow following back-to-back Old Trafford defeats to Crystal Palace and Galatasaray.

Ten Hag, whose side are 10th in the Premier League, is looking for more consistency from his players.

“That is the problem we are struggling with,” he added. “In parts of the games, in big parts, we do a lot of things right but we have moments where we struggle and in those moments we can’t survive.

“We need to do the right things, be consistent. We have to step up.

“We’ve spoken about it, how we can improve. There is more than one factor, concentration is one, but there are other things.”

United’s current struggles are typified by England striker Marcus Rashford, who has not scored in his last eight games for club and country.

Ten Hag says Rashford has his full support and has backed him to regain his touch in front of goal.

“It’s normal to not always be at the same level,” said the former Ajax boss.

“Everyone knows his quality but if Rashy is doing things right, and the team is doing things right, putting him in the right places, then it’s up to him. We have seen in the last few weeks, he’s getting into good positions and is struggling but this will pass because he has quality.

“Everyone at Manchester United backs him, the whole team is supportive of him and believes in him so I am confident with this belief that this [situation] will pass.”

Jon Fisher
Jon Fisher
Jon has over 20 years' experience in sports journalism having worked at the Press Association, Goal and Stats Perform, covering three World Cups, an Olympics and numerous other major sporting events.
Latest

Bouquet basics for Dad: Flower expert shares how to make those Father’s Day blooms last

A flower expert has revealed his top tips for dads to look after their blooms if they receive them for Father’s Day. Colourful bouquets and...

The Kim Jong Un Billboard That’s Shaking Up Manchester’s Fashion Scene

An eye-catching new billboard in Manchester featuring North Korea’s leader is challenging norms—and turning sustainable fashion on its head. A giant image of Kim Jong...

Heat Engineer Software Limited receives significant investment from Greenarc

Heat Engineer Software, the Lancashire based company at the forefront of heat loss calculations and the sizing of both renewable and traditional heating equipment,...

Pioneering project to change way people travel in Britain

A pioneering project is set to transform how people explore and move across Britain and Ireland. Slow Ways, a non-profit Community Interest Company, has already...
Subscribe to our newsletter
Business Manchester will use the information you provide on this form to be in touch with you and to provide updates and marketing.
Don't miss

Pioneering project to change way people travel in Britain

A pioneering project is set to transform how people explore and move across Britain and Ireland. Slow Ways, a non-profit Community Interest Company, has already...

Bouquet basics for Dad: Flower expert shares how to make those Father’s Day blooms last

A flower expert has revealed his top tips for dads to look after their blooms if they receive them for Father’s Day. Colourful bouquets and...

Heat Engineer Software Limited receives significant investment from Greenarc

Heat Engineer Software, the Lancashire based company at the forefront of heat loss calculations and the sizing of both renewable and traditional heating equipment,...

The Kim Jong Un Billboard That’s Shaking Up Manchester’s Fashion Scene

An eye-catching new billboard in Manchester featuring North Korea’s leader is challenging norms—and turning sustainable fashion on its head. A giant image of Kim Jong...

More News

F1 Australian Grand Prix 2025: Report, result, highlights as Norris savours ‘stressful’ win

Lando Norris praised McLaren's "amazing car" after overcoming unpredictable conditions to beat reigning champion Max Verstappen and win the F1 Australian Grand Prix 2025...

India vs Australia: Preview, expected lineups, how to watch on TV and prediction for ICC Champions Trophy 2025

India vs Australia: The State of Play India will be targeting a third consecutive appearance in the final when they face Australia in the first...

New Zealand vs India: Preview, expected lineups, how to watch on TV and prediction for ICC Champions Trophy 2025

New Zealand vs India: The State of Play Two teams in excellent form meet on Sunday when New Zealand and India collide in their final...