Manchester United fans are furious over what they believe to be a £10 million transfer blunder that could potentially cost Erik ten Hag his job. Many supporters are expressing their frustration, claiming that this error has contributed to the team’s struggles and may be a key factor in the manager’s precarious position at the club. This misstep in the transfer market has added to the mounting pressure on Ten Hag as his future at Old Trafford remains uncertain.
Manchester United, and particularly Erik ten Hag, head to Aston Villa on Sunday in urgent need of a positive result in the Premier League.
Manchester United, and particularly Erik ten Hag, head to Aston Villa on Sunday in urgent need of a positive result in the Premier League.
The Red Devils have only secured two wins while losing three of their first six league games this season, putting Ten Hag under intense scrutiny.
Last weekend’s 3-0 loss to Tottenham at Old Trafford has only increased the pressure on the Dutch manager to turn things around, especially after last season’s disappointing eighth-place finish.
Another disappointing result at Villa Park could seal Erik ten Hag’s fate, with Ineos chief Sir Jim Ratcliffe anticipated to be present alongside club executives.
If Bayern Munich, previously unbeaten under Vincent Kompany, can be defeated in the West Midlands, then this Manchester United side is certainly vulnerable as well.
Aston Villa had a historic night on Wednesday, as home supporters celebrated the return of Champions League football at the Holte End. Despite Bayern’s chances, goalkeeper Emi Martinez’s outstanding performance, along with Jhon Duran’s late long-range winner, secured a memorable 1-0 victory.
Duran, typically a backup to Ollie Watkins, has consistently made an impact off the bench this season. The 20-year-old striker has played just 297 minutes and made only one start, yet has scored six goals across all competitions.
His average of one goal every 50 minutes has caught the attention of both the Premier League and Europe, and he could have been showcasing this form for Manchester United.
In late 2022, Manchester United were strongly linked with a move for Jhon Duran, who was then a highly regarded teenager playing for Chicago Fire. Other European giants like Chelsea, Liverpool, and Benfica were also interested, with his valuation around £10 million.
However, in January 2023, Aston Villa swooped in and secured his signature, while United, desperate to replace Cristiano Ronaldo, brought in Wout Weghorst on loan instead.
Over the next two summers, United spent £108.5 million on Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee, but Duran is currently outperforming both. Following Duran’s latest impressive performances, United fans revisited an old report linking him to the club and expressed frustration that Erik ten Hag didn’t push for the transfer.