INEOS’ minority ownership deal with Manchester United means that Erik ten Hag may feel intensified scrutiny when Sir Jim Ratcliffe observes the upcoming match at Old Trafford. Ten Hag met with Ratcliffe and INEOS’ head of sport, Sir Dave Brailsford, to discuss the team’s future. However, the current challenges facing Ten Hag remain inescapable. The manager’s inability to establish a clear style of play or tactical progression has left the team hovering closer to 13th place than the top four.
In contrast, Ange Postecoglou has implemented a distinctive playing style at Tottenham Hotspur despite encountering similar injury-related obstacles. His dedication to expansive and attacking football has resulted in a period of positive results for Tottenham, creating a stark contrast to Manchester United’s lack of clear progression.
Postecoglou’s unwavering commitment to his football philosophy has led to a successful transformation of his team, serving as a potential source of inspiration for Erik ten Hag. As Ten Hag reflects on his own team’s failure to deliver the same level of conviction, the significance of securing a victory over Tottenham this season becomes increasingly apparent. Consequently, another defeat to a revitalized Tottenham side would undoubtedly reflect poorly on Ten Hag and place further scrutiny on his tenure at Manchester United.
