Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has revealed the extent of the club’s defensive struggles this season, citing an unprecedented number of injuries that have forced him to constantly alter his backline. According to a statement he made to @VI_nl, Ten Hag has had to deploy 15 different centre-back pairings and a total of 33 different defensive line-ups over the course of the campaign.
Impact of Injuries on Team Selection
The injury crisis at Manchester United has been so severe that midfielder Sofyan Amrabat was repurposed to play as a left-back in four different matches. This situation underscores the challenges Ten Hag has faced in maintaining a consistent defensive strategy, which has been a key factor in the team’s fluctuating form this season.
Recent statements from Ten Hag, including his reflections on the team’s performance and his responses to criticism, highlight his ongoing struggle to stabilize the team amidst these challenges. Despite the defensive turmoil, Ten Hag has remained confident in his squad’s capabilities and resilience.
The frequent changes in defensive personnel not only affect the team’s cohesion but also reflect the broader issues of squad depth and injury management that Ten Hag has had to navigate. This situation at Manchester United will likely be a focal point as the club plans for the upcoming season, aiming for improved consistency and fewer injuries.