Despite having key players like Marcus Rashford, the team has struggled to convert opportunities into goals, highlighting issues with finishing and tactical execution.
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Formation and Tactics:
Ten Hag's preferred formation is 4-2-3-1, which emphasizes man-marking in midfield and counter-pressing when losing possession.
This season, they are currently 16th in open play xG per shot but third in "big chances created," indicating a disconnect between creating opportunities and converting them into goals.
Graphical Analysis
Win Percentage Over Time:
A line graph showing the win percentage of Manchester United under Ten Hag's management. This graph would highlight the fluctuations in performance, particularly the drop from his early success with Ajax.
Goals Scored vs. Goals Conceded:
A bar chart comparing the number of goals scored and conceded by Manchester United under Ten Hag. This would illustrate the team's defensive shortcomings and their inability to maintain a balanced scoring record.
Tactical Formation Efficiency:
A heat map showing the field positions where Manchester United's players are most active during matches. This would reveal the over-reliance on certain players and the tactical gaps that opponents have been exploiting.
Performance Metrics Comparison:
A radar chart comparing Manchester United's key performance indicators (KPIs) with other top Premier League teams. This would provide a comprehensive view of where the team is lagging behind in terms of both offensive and defensive metrics.
Challenges and Recommendations
Tactical Adjustments:
Ten Hag needs to reassess his tactical approach, particularly in terms of defensive stability and player positioning. Over-committing players to attacks has left the team exposed at the back.
Player Utilization:
Proper utilization of key players is crucial. For instance, players like Marcus Rashford need to be placed in positions where they can maximize their goal-scoring potential.
Systematic Changes:
Implementing a more balanced system that doesn't over-rely on certain players for both attacking and defending could help stabilize the team's performance.
In summary, while Erik ten Hag brought a promising tactical approach from his Ajax days, the implementation at Manchester United has faced significant challenges. Addressing these issues through tactical adjustments and better player utilization could help turn things around for the team.
