Manchester United’s recent woes on the pitch have ignited a fresh wave of criticism, with former striker Michael Owen joining the chorus of disapproval. Following the Red Devils’ 3-1 defeat to Manchester City, Owen expressed his belief that manager Erik ten Hag should be shown the exit door due to the enigma surrounding the team’s style of play.
United’s Defeat and Style Dilemma
Sunday’s Premier League clash against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium ended in disappointment for Manchester United, with goals from Phil Foden (2) and Erling Haaland sealing a 3-1 victory for Pep Guardiola’s side. Despite an early lead through Marcus Rashford, United struggled to make an impact in the second half, registering just one shot on target.
Owen, a Manchester United legend, voiced his frustration with the team’s approach, particularly in the absence of a clear identity on the pitch. The former striker highlighted that while other top clubs like Manchester City, Liverpool, Tottenham, and Aston Villa exhibit distinct playing styles, United’s strategy remains elusive.
Owen’s Call for Change
In a recent interview with Premier League productions, Michael Owen didn’t mince words as he advocated for Erik ten Hag’s departure. Owen acknowledged that the manager isn’t solely responsible, citing the average performances of recent signings. However, his primary critique centered around the lack of clarity in United’s playing style, questioning whether they are a possession-based team, counter-attacking force, or something else entirely.
Owen stated, “I still watch United, and I have no idea what they want to do, at all.” He went on to emphasize that a team’s direction and style should be evident, irrespective of individual player limitations. The ambiguity surrounding United’s approach, according to Owen, stems from the top, indicating a managerial responsibility.
The Dilemma: Style or Substance?
United’s struggle to find a clear identity on the field has fueled speculation about Ten Hag’s future, with Owen underscoring the importance of defining a distinctive style. While acknowledging the challenges faced by the team, Owen argued that even if United were to play open, attacking football and lose, it would at least establish a recognizable pattern.
As the debate over Ten Hag’s tenure intensifies, the spotlight on Manchester United’s playing philosophy becomes more pronounced. Whether the club’s leadership heeds Owen’s call for change or stands by the current managerial setup will undoubtedly shape the future trajectory of the storied football institution. The Manchester derby may be behind them, but the echoes of Owen’s critique linger as Manchester United faces crucial decisions ahead.
