Erik ten Hag, Manchester United’s manager, has been criticized for his leadership at Old Trafford, but according to former Premier League star Emmanuel Petit, the Dutchman isn’t the sole problem. Petit has pointed the finger at some of United’s senior players, accusing them of failing to take responsibility and support the team in difficult times.
Ten Hag, who took charge in 2022, has led United to FA Cup and League Cup victories but has also faced significant challenges, including heavy defeats to Liverpool and Manchester City. Despite this, Petit believes Ten Hag deserves credit for developing young talents like Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo, who have become key players for the Red Devils.
Speaking in an interview, Petit defended Ten Hag’s efforts, saying, “He’s done his best in a challenging environment, but he’s been let down by some senior players who should be setting the example. It’s disappointing to see younger players showing more respect and discipline on the pitch.”
Petit’s criticism comes amid growing pressure on Ten Hag, with United struggling for consistency in the Premier League. While the team has shown promise, particularly with a recent 7-0 thrashing of Barnsley in the Carabao Cup, Ten Hag’s position remains under scrutiny as United prepares for crucial matches ahead.
With some of the senior players underperforming and not living up to their past accolades, the weight of responsibility falls on the younger generation to push Manchester United forward. Whether Ten Hag can turn things around remains to be seen, but his supporters argue that it’s not just his tactics, but also a lack of accountability from experienced players, that has contributed to United’s ongoing struggles.Emmanuel Petit’s defense of Erik ten Hag reflects a nuanced view of Manchester United’s recent struggles. While Ten Hag has faced criticism for his leadership at Old Trafford, Petit argues that the problem extends beyond the manager and into the squad’s senior players. According to Petit, some of these experienced players have failed to step up and lead by example during difficult moments, leaving younger talents like Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo to carry the team.
Ten Hag’s tenure, which began in 2022, has seen both highs and lows, including domestic cup successes but also heavy defeats to rivals like Liverpool and Manchester City. Despite these challenges, Petit believes that Ten Hag deserves credit for developing promising young players and maintaining discipline in a turbulent environment.
This perspective aligns with the sentiment that the team’s inconsistency isn’t solely due to managerial issues but also a lack of accountability among the senior squad members. With growing pressure on Ten Hag to deliver results, especially as Manchester United faces key matches ahead, the focus may need to shift from tactical adjustments to addressing the leadership deficiencies among the club’s more seasoned players.
