The longer pressure ramps up on Erik ten Hag to improve Manchester United’s results, the more his players will be playing for their futures at Old Trafford. And four stars could already be fading from the Dutchman’s long-term plan after Sunday’s derby defeat showcased his problems in bold.
There are members of Ten Hag’s squad – including Jadon Sancho and Donny van de Beek – whose United careers appear over already.
But too many players in that dreadful 3-0 defeat on home turf need to drastically enhance what they offer if they want to avoid becoming the next departures.
Express Sport pinpoints four United stars who are already fighting for their futures in what Ten Hag will hope is a long-term project.
Victor Lindelof
Victor Lindelof was regularly exposed against Manchester City, but there is an element of sympathy that he has had to cover a left-back injury crisis.
That said, his performances at centre-back haven’t been up to scratch this season, and he now looks to have fallen back below Harry Maguire in the pecking order.
Ten Hag has gradually been phasing out previous managers’ signings, and Lindelof could be one of the next to leave if he is pushed to the background when a left-back returns to fitness.
United need aggressiveness and pace at centre-half to accommodate how Ten Hag wants to play. Lindelof provides neither far too often.
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Christian Eriksen
Christian Eriksen is a strong shout to be the first Ten Hag signing that the Dutchman gets rid of.
The 31-year-old Dane has ultimately proven to be good value at United. He considerably helped Ten Hag achieve a successful debut season after penning a three-year contract.
But he no longer possesses the stamina and athleticism to play for longer than an hour. And when he does, his technical ability suffers.
Ten Hag needs to replace Eriksen next summer with a younger option capable of starting at least 30 Premier League games a season.
Antony
Ten Hag brought Antony to Old Trafford in an £85million deal to undoubtedly be his right-winger for the next decade. It may be a surprise to see his name feature on this hitlist.
But it hasn’t worked out so far. The 23-year-old Brazilian is one-footed and possesses questionable decision-making even when at his most clinical in front of goal.
His relegation to Ten Hag’s bench against City felt significant. The fact Alejandro Garnacho was introduced before him and that he wasn’t called on until the 86th minute had the same impact.
Eight goals and three assists in 53 appearances isn’t good enough. And Antony may not be a sure starter for much longer if he doesn’t level up his productivity.
