“He’s the one killing Manchester United,he only plays his Favourite Player and benches the good ones..what a Joke!” Sports Pundit has sent strong words against Manchester United coach stating he’s being known for benching good players and starting his favourite ones only giving others limited playing time❌ . . .
Despite Manchester United’s recent struggles, manager Erik ten Hag remains resolute in his support for captain Bruno Fernandes ahead of a pivotal Premier League clash with Tottenham Hotspur. This decision may surprise some, but it highlights the difficult position the club is in as they attempt to recover from a season filled with underwhelming performances.
United have endured a frustrating campaign, slipping outside the Premier League’s top ten. Their attacking woes have been particularly evident, with missed opportunities in front of goal negatively impacting both their domestic and European efforts. The recent 1-1 draw against FC Twente at Old Trafford further exposed these issues, extending their winless run in the Europa League and amplifying concerns.
So far, the Red Devils have only secured three wins in eight matches across all competitions. Their struggles have underscored their inability to assert control both in the league and in Europe. While new recruit Joshua Zirkzee has shown potential in the final third with his link-up play, the former Bologna forward has yet to find the clinical edge to significantly boost the team. The absence of Rasmus Hojlund due to injury has put additional pressure on Zirkzee, further revealing United’s attacking vulnerabilities.
Perhaps the most concerning issue for United is the dip in form from Fernandes. Once praised for his creativity and goal-scoring prowess, the Portuguese midfielder has yet to find the back of the net this season, despite leading the league in shot attempts—a stark contrast to his usual high performance.
Fernandes’ challenges go beyond his goal drought. His overall play has been inconsistent, with his passing often lacking the precision that made him one of the league’s best creators. His decision-making has also been questioned, notably during the Europa League draw, when he attempted an ambitious long-range shot in the dying minutes instead of passing to a better-positioned teammate. This frustrated the home crowd, who viewed it as a sign of desperation rather than strategy.
Adding to fans’ concerns, Fernandes has frequently lost possession, further destabilizing United’s ability to control games. This inconsistency has not only worried supporters but also those within the club, as Fernandes is a key figure in providing leadership during this difficult period.
Despite the mounting concerns, Ten Hag seems determined to keep Fernandes in the starting lineup for the crucial Tottenham match. The Dutch manager likely believes that Fernandes can rediscover his form and play a vital role in reversing United’s fortunes. Even when not at his best, Fernandes’ leadership and potential for moments of brilliance make him a central figure in the team’s strategy.
With the pressure on both Fernandes and Ten Hag intensifying, the upcoming Tottenham fixture could be a turning point. A strong performance could revive the team’s confidence and spark a change in momentum. However, another disappointing result could deepen the crisis at Old Trafford, raising more questions about Ten Hag’s approach and Fernandes’ position in the team.
In the coming days, much will depend on whether Fernandes can rise to the occasion and demonstrate the talent that has made him a key player for United. For now, Ten Hag’s decision to back his captain will be closely watched, as fans hope that their manager’s faith will translate into a crucial victory.
