Manchester United’s defeat to West Ham has opened up a fresh wave of criticism, with club legends now questioning whether Erik ten Hag is still the right man to lead the Red Devils forward. The loss was not just another dent in the club’s already shaky season—it reignited a long-standing debate about Ten Hag’s tactical decisions, especially in high-stakes away games.
Former midfielder Paul Scholes, one of United’s most decorated players, led the charge after the match, describing Ten Hag’s approach as “naive.” His comment, while direct, struck a nerve with many fans who have grown weary of watching the team falter against stronger opponents on the road. According to Scholes, the Dutchman’s reluctance to adapt his game plan in difficult fixtures continues to hurt the club’s chances.
United’s away record under Ten Hag is beginning to look like a pattern of missed opportunities. From Tottenham to Arsenal, from Newcastle to now West Ham, the results paint a worrying picture. For a club of Manchester United’s stature, consistently underperforming away from home is unacceptable—especially when the same issues persist week after week.
One particular point of concern was the manager’s decision to start 19-year-old defender Willy Kambwala in a match that demanded both experience and stability at the back. While giving young talents a chance is commendable, doing so in a game where the stakes were high and confidence low raised serious eyebrows.
Kambwala’s inclusion, though brave, seemed to reflect a sense of desperation rather than tactical ingenuity. It left many wondering whether Ten Hag is beginning to lose touch with the dressing room, or worse, struggling to handle the pressure that comes with the United job.
As United limp into the January transfer window, the timing of this defeat could not have been worse. The club’s form is erratic, their identity under question, and their position in the Premier League table far below expectations. With Sir Jim Ratcliffe on the verge of acquiring a 25% stake in the club, the boardroom may soon look very different—and so might the dugout.
Pressure is now mounting not just from fans and pundits but also from within. The fear is that if the results don’t improve soon, especially against top-tier opposition, the owners may be forced to act. Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s investment comes with expectations, and one of them will undoubtedly be restoring the club’s lost pride.
Scholes’ criticism of Ten Hag was echoed by other former United players, with many agreeing that the tactical rigidity on display has become a liability. Whether it’s sticking with one holding midfielder against attacking sides or failing to make timely substitutions, the cracks are becoming too visible to ignore.
In the past, managers like Sir Alex Ferguson were praised for their ability to adapt, surprise, and dominate across various grounds. Ten Hag, despite showing early promise, has yet to convince that he can bring that same aura of invincibility back to Old Trafford.
Supporters are now split. Some believe Ten Hag deserves more time, arguing that the squad he inherited is flawed and needs serious rebuilding. Others think he’s had enough time to make his mark and should be showing more consistency, especially given the funds spent on transfers since his arrival.
The January window presents a possible lifeline. But the question remains—will Ten Hag be the man overseeing those signings, or will the board opt for a fresh start under new leadership?
Adding to the uncertainty is the growing list of injuries, tactical misfires, and underperforming stars. For every moment of brilliance United show, there’s a period of complete disarray that follows. The inconsistency is now a feature, not a bug.
United’s loss to West Ham was not just a defeat—it was symbolic. It showed a team lacking confidence, lacking a clear identity, and most worryingly, lacking leadership. The manager’s post-match demeanor did little to inspire belief that a turnaround is imminent.
If Ten Hag is to survive this storm, he will need more than just tactical tweaks—he’ll need results, and fast. His future may now depend on what happens over the next few weeks. Fail to deliver, and the chorus calling for his dismissal will only grow louder.
The fans, the legends, and perhaps even the board are no longer content with excuses. They want change. They want fight. And above all, they want Manchester United back at the top—where the club belongs.
As the situation unfolds, one thing is clear: Erik ten Hag’s job is no longer safe. The countdown has begun, and every match from here could be decisive.
