Manchester United’s woes seem never-ending, extending across both European and domestic competitions. Their Champions League exit is fresh in the memory, with four defeats highlighting their tactical naivety and individual errors.
In the Premier League, a mid-table position reflects inconsistency and a toothless attack. While glimpses of attacking flair emerge, they’re overshadowed by defensive frailties and midfield shortcomings. Bruno Fernandes, once their talisman, appears jaded. Rasmus Hojlund and Mason Mount haven’t lived up to their hefty price tags. The shadow of Sir Alex Ferguson’s era looms large, a constant reminder of their trophyless years since 2017.
While it’s too early to definitively say Ten Hag hasn’t been successful, Manchester United‘s progress under him remains uneven. With only half a season under his belt, implementing systemic change at a club of United’s size takes time. The playing squad inherited needs a significant overhaul, and his philosophy’s full integration requires sustained effort.
The United fanbase and media scrutiny are intense, demanding immediate success. This pressure can stifle a manager’s long-term approach and create an environment where tactical tweaks are misconstrued as failures. Amidst all this, Ten Hag needs to navigate the challenges and focus on the task at hand, much like fans in India navigate the diverse platforms, seeking the best football betting sites in India to enhance their experience.
Between Erik Ten Hag and Sir Alex Ferguson, there was one man who did an exceptional job with the club in a very short tenure. Jose Mourinho’s tenure as Manchester United’s manager was a rollercoaster ride marked by intense scrutiny and occasional success.
Heralded as the ‘Special One’ upon arrival in 2016, Mourinho aimed to restore the club’s former glory. Despite winning the Europa League and League Cup in his debut season, his pragmatic style and strained relations with players drew criticism. While he secured a second-place finish in the Premier League in 2017-18, his third season saw a decline in results and team morale.
Mourinho’s departure in December 2018 reflected the complexities of managing one of football’s most prestigious clubs amid high expectations and relentless scrutiny.
As Jose Mourinho leaves Roma for a new adventure, the biggest question being asked by the Pundits is whether Manchester United will give another chance to Mourinho and whether this is the right time to bring back one of the greatest.
Jose Mourinho & his comeback to the Red Devils
Mourinho’s pedigree speaks for itself. He boasts 25 major trophies, including three Premier League titles and two Champions League victories. In his first stint at United, he delivered the Europa League and Carabao Cup. His ability to win silverware, even in difficult situations, is undeniable.
United desperately needs immediate improvement. Mourinho’s pragmatic approach and focus on defensive solidity could quickly arrest their slide. He excels at getting the most out of experienced players, potentially revitalising veterans like Varane and Maguire.
Mourinho is also a commanding figure known for his strong personality. He thrives on pressure and instils discipline in his players. Such leadership may be what United lacks, especially with a young squad needing clear direction.
Another reason for Mourinho to come back to Manchester United is that he believes he has “unfinished business” at United. He may be motivated to prove his doubters wrong and rewrite the narrative of his first tenure. This personal mission could translate into increased commitment and drive.
Even though multiple points talk in favour of Mourinho making a comeback, there are a few points that don’t support his return as well. Mourinho’s defensive, counter-attacking style has become predictable and less effective in modern football. His reluctance to embrace young talent and his preference for experienced veterans clash with United’s long-term vision.
Mourinho’s combative personality and public criticism of players often create a toxic environment. His turbulent relationships with the media and fans could harm team unity and damage the club’s image. While Mourinho might offer a quick fix, his history suggests he rarely delivers sustained success beyond a few seasons.
United needs a manager who can build a long-term project, not just win trophies in the short term. Ultimately bringing back Mourinho would signify a lack of progress and not learning from past mistakes. It could signal a return to the cycle of short-term gains followed by the inevitable decline that characterised his first United stint.
Should Erik Ten Hag leave?
Some argue for a clean slate. Ten Hag inherited a squad lacking cohesion and riddled with individual errors. Implementing his philosophy takes time, and half a season with mid-season arrival limits his impact on pre-season training and recruitment. The January transfer window saw promising signings, but integrating them requires patience.
Moreover, Ten Hag has shown glimpses of positive change. His tactical tweaks offer more defensive solidity, and he’s unafraid to drop underperforming players like Maguire. Additionally, European distractions shouldn’t overshadow progress in the league, where points slowly accumulate.
However, concerns remain. The playing style, while more organised, lacks attacking flair. Inconsistent performances and individual mistakes persist, raising questions about coaching effectiveness. Furthermore, the shadow of past managerial failures weighs heavily, and even slight setbacks trigger impatience. Ultimately, judging Ten Hag now is premature. While challenges exist, dismissing him after half a season disregards the complexities involved in rebuilding a giant like United.
