Manchester United’s struggles continue as they stumbled to a 0-0 draw against Aston Villa on Sunday, October 6. The match, held at Villa Park, was uninspiring for many fans and pundits alike, and United legend Paul Scholes had some sharp words of concern regarding the team’s performance.
Scholes on Manchester United: “Never felt like they were there to win the game”
After the game, Scholes didn’t hold back in his assessment, claiming that the Red Devils seemed more focused on survival than actually winning the match.
“It’s a point for United going to a tough ground under a lot of pressure. I never really felt like they were there to try and win the game. It was more of a survival tactic than anything.”
His comments hit home for many United fans, who have grown increasingly frustrated with the team’s lackluster performances this season. Despite being a historically dominant force in the Premier League, Manchester United’s current form has raised eyebrows, especially under manager Erik ten Hag.
Scholes continued, noting that while Villa didn’t live up to their previous form, United were equally sluggish:
“Villa had a big win against Bayern Munich and struggled to live up to that today. For United to go away in Europe, it’s difficult on a Thursday night, and they had a tough game. I think the game probably reflects the midweek both clubs had.”
A Midweek Hangover? United’s Struggles After Europa League Clash
Manchester United’s poor form against Aston Villa might stem from a taxing week in Europe. Coming off a thrilling yet draining 3-3 draw with Porto in the Europa League, United’s players were visibly fatigued. During that game, United surrendered a two-goal lead, only to rely on a last-minute header from Harry Maguire to salvage a point.
Against Villa, Manchester United managed just four shots on target and recorded an xG (expected goals) of only 0.56, highlighting their offensive struggles. The draw extended United’s underwhelming run in the Premier League, with the club collecting only eight points from their first seven games.
This dismal form marks the club’s worst start in the league since the 2013-14 season, and Erik ten Hag finds himself under mounting pressure from both fans and the media.
Ten Hag’s Perspective: Manchester United Still Backing Their Manager
Despite the turmoil surrounding Manchester United’s poor results, Erik ten Hag remains defiant. The Dutch manager, who joined the club with high expectations, has found his position under scrutiny. However, Ten Hag insists that he still enjoys the backing of the club’s board and ownership.
Speaking after the draw, Ten Hag maintained that he is in regular communication with the Manchester United hierarchy.
“I don’t have any idea that is different because they should have told me. We communicate – very open, very transparent.”
His comments come at a time when there is growing speculation that the club could make a managerial change if results don’t improve soon. However, Ten Hag remains confident in his role, saying:
“I would say every day we talk, so I expect I will speak with them.”
Manchester United’s Woeful Start: Breaking Down the Numbers
As things stand, Manchester United are languishing in 14th place in the Premier League table with only two wins from their opening seven games. The club’s eight points from these matches represents their worst start in the league since Ten Hag took charge.
Key Stats from Manchester United’s Season So Far:
- Shots on Target Against Villa: 4
- Expected Goals (xG) Against Villa: 0.56
- Position in Premier League: 14th
- Points Collected: 8 (from 7 games)
- Worst Start in Premier League History for United
The numbers paint a bleak picture for Manchester United. Fans and pundits alike are left wondering whether the team can turn things around before it’s too late, or if deeper structural changes need to be made within the club.
What’s Next for Manchester United?
With Manchester United’s next few fixtures approaching fast, the pressure is mounting on Ten Hag and his squad to produce results. The Red Devils will need to improve both their attacking and defensive performances if they hope to climb the Premier League table and compete for a top-four spot.
While the Europa League presents another potential path to success, United’s inconsistent domestic form is alarming. Can Erik ten Hag rally his players and change the narrative, or will the club continue to languish in mediocrity this season?
Paul Scholes’ frank critique of Manchester United’s performance against Aston Villa highlights the growing concerns surrounding the club. With a tough Premier League campaign ahead, Erik ten Hag’s future at Old Trafford could hinge on the team’s ability to find consistency. As United continue their quest for improvement, only time will tell if they can recover from their poor start and reignite their campaign.
I am a writer with a passion for technology and gaming. I write about a variety of subjects, including Esports, Games, Shows, and Sports. I create engaging and informative content for Hiptoro.