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Manchester United Lose To Liverpool
Manchester United’s troubled start to the 2024-25 season hit a new low as Liverpool was comprehensively beaten 3-0 at Old Trafford. The defeat leaves Erik ten Hag under mounting pressure, with his team showing little sign of improvement despite significant summer spending.
Defensive Frailties on Full Display
Manchester United’s defense was in disarray from the outset, with costly mistakes leading directly to Liverpool’s goals. Casemiro, a usually reliable presence in midfield, had a particularly poor outing. His possession errors contributed to Luis Diaz’s goals, and he was substituted at halftime. Erik ten Hag explained the decision, stating, “It is what the team needed… He will go on, and we will go on.” Despite this, the damage was already done, and United never recovered.
United’s defensive frailties are becoming a recurring theme this season. The backline looked disjointed and vulnerable to Liverpool’s high press, with little cohesion or communication evident. Ten Hag’s attempts to shore up the defense with substitutions had minimal impact, and the result reflected the gulf in class between the two sides.
Erik ten Hag’s Struggles Continue
This latest defeat marks United’s second consecutive loss in the Premier League, compounding an already disappointing start to the season. Erik ten Hag, under significant pressure to close the gap on Manchester City and other top teams, remains defiant. “We are building a new team… By the end of the season, I am quite confident again,” Ten Hag told reporters after the match. However, confidence is waning among fans and pundits, who are questioning whether Ten Hag is the right man to lead United forward.
Despite spending £180 million on new signings this summer, United has struggled to find consistency and cohesion. The team looks like a work in progress, and time is running out for Ten Hag to find the right formula.
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Casemiro’s Underwhelming Performance
One of the most concerning aspects of the defeat was Casemiro’s underperformance. The Brazilian midfielder, brought in to add experience and stability, was uncharacteristically sloppy, losing possession in dangerous areas and contributing directly to Liverpool’s goals. Ten Hag defended his player, saying, “He will show that again and will bounce back,” but there are growing concerns about whether Casemiro can maintain his level at the highest level of competition.
What’s Next for Manchester United?
As United heads into the international break, Erik ten Hag faces a critical period to regroup and address the team’s numerous issues.
With Southampton up next on September 14, the Dutch manager will need to find solutions quickly to avoid further scrutiny and potential repercussions. The pressure is mounting, and Ten Hag’s ability to turn things around will be tested in the coming weeks.
