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via Reuters

via Reuters

This season’s spell has been nothing less than piercing for Manchester United’s fans. After finishing third last season, Erik ten Hag’s men have been struggling to climb the ladder in the Premier League. What looks to be more frustrating is their inconsistency. Despite putting up some impressive performances, the club has dropped crucial points. And speaking his mind about the club, its former star, Rio Ferdinand, explains what the Red Devils lack.

The former defender took a dig at Erik ten Hag’s lack of awareness. Speaking on his podcast, Rio Ferdinand Presents Five, he stated, “I just think if you coach a team, you’re not coaching just 11; you’re coaching everyone in the squad, so when they come, you should know their roles and responsibilities to be able to implement a certain way of playing. And Man United just don’t have a style of play at the moment where you go that is them,” citing the lack of coordination.

Whenever Manchester United entered a game as the hot favorites, it gave hope to United’s fans, and most of the time, they were left disappointed. However, the issue goes beyond just results. Ferdinand feels that the club has been random in its approach to play on the pitch. United’s last game against Fulham was an obvious example of how a lack of proper defensive tactics led them to concede a deciding goal in stoppage time.

Meanwhile, the club has managed to score 36 goals, which is as many as they’ve conceded this year. One of their main issues has been with goalkeeper Andre Onana, who has been a mixed bag this season. Apart from his blunders taunted United in the UEFA Champions League, the keeper tends to go blank near the goal sometimes. However, the Cameroonian has managed to churn out some great saves. On the other hand, their attack also seems to be a significant issue.

Rio Ferdinand expects Manchester United to be more creative

Apart from Alejandro Garnacho, most of the attackers seemed to be in a shell this season. Marcus Rashford, who showed signs of resurgence last season with 30 goals, has just netted five this time. Therefore, Ferdinand feels that the Red Devils lack creativity and says, “We never have a sustained period of attack,” emphasizing their lack of gameplay in the other half and losing the ball.

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Moreover, the Red Devils are currently placed 6th in the table and will need to pull their socks up to hold a chance to qualify for next year’s UCL. But in the current scenario, the first aim of Erik ten Hag would be to create a plan on the pitch, giving them more stability.

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