Following West Ham’s resounding victory over Manchester United on Saturday, Paul Scholes criticized Erik ten Hag for being “naive” in away games, highlighting ongoing issues when facing stronger opponents.
Under the Dutchman’s management, United has struggled away from home, evident in their recent defeat to West Ham and previous challenging trips to Tottenham, Arsenal, and Newcastle this season.
Even in the Premier League, their travel woes extend to last season, where they suffered a 7-0 thrashing at Anfield. Additionally, their early Champions League exit was attributed, in part, to poor performances in away fixtures.
Speaking on TNT Sports, Scholes directed his critique toward Ten Hag, pointing out concerns with the team’s tactical approach: “They struggled last year in the big games, and I also felt that it was naive going to good away grounds and playing with one holding midfielder and the rest being attacking.” Scholes emphasized the difficulty of employing such a strategy against top teams in England.
For the West Ham match, Ten Hag unexpectedly included 19-year-old defender Willy Kambwala in the starting lineup due to Raphael Varane’s illness and Harry Maguire’s suspension. Scholes expressed initial apprehension about United’s chances, stating, “West Ham is difficult to play against, but they also have brilliant forward players that can cause you trouble.”
These concerns proved valid as United succumbed to a 2-0 defeat, leaving them in eighth place in the standings. The outcome intensifies the pressure on Ten Hag, who now faces heightened scrutiny. With an upcoming Boxing Day clash against Aston Villa at Old Trafford, Ten Hag must address the team’s performance issues promptly.
The disappointing results coincide with Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s anticipated acquisition of a twenty-five percent share in the club, potentially impacting the team’s direction. As the January transfer window approaches, Ten Hag’s position becomes even more precarious, with the need for improvements and strategic adjustments to revive United’s form on the road and at home.
In light of these challenges, Ten Hag’s ability to find the right balance in tactics and address away-game struggles becomes pivotal for Manchester United’s success in the remainder of the season.
