Manchester United’s owner has officially terminated Erik ten Hag’s contract this evening in the wake of the team’s lackluster performance against Liverpool.

Under Ten Hag’s management, Manchester United has struggled significantly on the road, suffering defeats to teams like West Ham, Tottenham, Arsenal, and Newcastle. Scholes raised concerns about the tactical approach, especially the choice to field only one holding midfielder against strong opponents away from Old Trafford. According to Scholes, this strategy has left the team vulnerable defensively and unable to handle the pressure from top-tier teams.

Adding to the controversy was Ten Hag’s surprising decision to start 19-year-old defender Willy Kambwala in the match against West Ham. Given Kambwala’s limited experience at the senior level, many found this choice unexpected. Scholes and other analysts suggested that such decisions highlight a broader issue with Ten Hag’s tactical planning and game management, especially in critical away matches.

According to Scholes, this strategy has left the team defensively exposed and struggling to handle the pressure from top-tier sides.

The controversy was further fueled by Ten Hag’s unexpected choice to start 19-year-old defender Willy Kambwala in the game against West Ham. Given Kambwala’s limited senior experience, many found this decision surprising. Scholes and other analysts argued that such moves indicate a wider problem with Ten Hag’s tactical planning and game management, especially in crucial away matches.

The loss to West Ham has intensified the scrutiny on Ten Hag, whose performance is now under heavy evaluation, particularly with discussions about Sir Jim Ratcliffe potentially acquiring a 25% stake in the club. This potential shift in ownership could introduce new expectations and pressures, further complicating Ten Hag’s situation.

As the January transfer window nears, Ten Hag is under increasing pressure to make strategic adjustments to address Manchester United’s persistent away-game problems.

His capacity to adapt his tactics, bolster the squad, and enhance the team’s performance on the road will be vital for securing his position as manager and achieving success for the rest of the season. The next few weeks will be crucial as Ten Hag works to overcome these challenges and resolve the team’s ongoing issues.