David Moyes has identified Manchester United’s most significant issue, but he doesn’t think it relates to the manager or the players.
WHAT HAPPENED?
Moyes maintains that Manchester United made the correct choice in retaining Erik ten Hag as manager, despite speculation earlier in the summer about the former Ajax coach potentially losing his position. However, he believes the club’s most significant challenge comes from their fierce rivals, Manchester City, rather than from anyone on their own team.
United ended up finishing eighth in the Premier League, but they did secure the FA Cup. Moyes is skeptical about their chances of catching the champions, who are looking to claim their fifth consecutive title in the 2024-25 season.
Moyes shared his thoughts on William Hill’s podcast, Up Front With Simon Jordan: “Erik ten Hag is currently dealing with a lot, but he has performed admirably considering the immense pressure he is under. Sometimes, players use issues with the manager as convenient excuses. United used to have an incredible winning culture within the club. Ten Hag has been battling for the last two years, and let’s not forget he has secured two trophies during that period. I respect his determination to respond to the criticism.
“There was a point during the summer when people were discussing the stability of his position, and I find that unfortunate. It’s an awful situation to place a manager in, and he has handled it with remarkable dignity. He has returned to challenge the situation and is eager to make things right.”
“Ultimately, the main issue for United is not their manager or their players; it is Manchester City and Pep Guardiola.”
WHAT NEXT?
United will play Liverpool in their final pre-season friendly this weekend before facing Manchester City in the Community Shield on August 10. After that, Ten Hag’s team will begin their Premier League campaign against Fulham.
