Manchester United have had Erik ten Hag’s blueprint all over them throughout pre-season as the Dutchman attempts to refine the tactical tweak that achieved a successful end to last term. It’s a far cry from Sir Jim Ratcliffe‘s comments in February when he claimed that United’s new-look hierarchy would decide the club’s style of play.
The Red Devils’ pre-season tour of the United States didn’t produce the results Ten Hag would’ve hoped for – 2-1 and 3-0 defeats to Arsenal and Liverpool on either side of a 3-2 win against Real Betis.
But he will harness optimism from his side’s performances as the identity he wants to instil at Old Trafford starts to become more clear.
United salvaged a disastrous 2023/24 campaign with a late tactical tweak that saw Ten Hag’s players enter a 4-2-4 defensive shape out of possession.
It contributed to the incredible FA Cup final victory over Manchester City – the result that arguably saved the Dutchman’s job after overseeing a record-low eighth-place Premier League finish.
Scott McTominay and Mason Mount pressing centrally while Jadon Sancho pushed out to the left and Amad Diallo remained on the right was a common sight against Betis and Liverpool in the US.
Based on that, Ten Hag will persist with the same system this season, using his attacking midfielder and striker to apply central pressure with his midfield double pivot behind.
MORE TO FOLLOW
We’ll be bringing you the very latest updates, pictures and video on this breaking news story.
For the latest news and breaking news visit: express.co.uk/sport/football. Stay up to date with all the big headlines, pictures, analysis, opinion and video on the stories that matter to you.
Follow us on Twitter @dexpress_sport – the official Daily Express & Express.co.uk Twitter account – providing real news in real time.
We’re also on Facebook @dailyexpresssport – offering your must-see news, features, videos and pictures throughout the day to like, comment and share from the Daily Express, Sunday Express and Express.co.uk.
MORE TO FOLLOW
We’ll be bringing you the very latest updates, pictures and video on this breaking news story.
For the latest news and breaking news visit: express.co.uk/sport/football. Stay up to date with all the big headlines, pictures, analysis, opinion and video on the stories that matter to you.
Follow us on Twitter @dexpress_sport – the official Daily Express & Express.co.uk Twitter account – providing real news in real time.
We’re also on Facebook @dailyexpresssport – offering your must-see news, features, videos and pictures throughout the day to like, comment and share from the Daily Express, Sunday Express and Express.co.uk.
Content Source: www.express.co.uk