“The Situation Would Be Untenable For Erik ten Hag” – Louis Saha Believes Manchester United Could Dismiss Manager If They Lose To Southampton

Former Manchester United player Louis Saha has sent Erik ten Hag a grim warning ahead of the Premier League clash with Southampton on Saturday, September 14. Saha believes the Red Devils could relieve the Dutchman of his responsibilities if he cannot take his team to a much-needed victory over the Saints.

Manchester United Has Suffered A Disappointing Start To 2024-25 Season

After signing some big names in the summer transfer window, Manchester United was expected to enjoy a strong start to the 2024-25 campaign. Unfortunately, that has not been the case.

The Old Trafford outfit began their season with a defeat to Manchester City in the FA Community Shield. They did a commendable job at keeping Manchester City at bay over 90 minutes but could not maintain composure during the penalty shootout.

United opened the Premier League campaign with a narrow 1-0 victory over Fulham before suffering consecutive defeats against Brighton & Hove Albion and Liverpool. The defeat against Liverpool at Old Trafford was especially embarrassing, as United could not even put up a fight against their bitterest rivals.

Louis Saha Believes Erik ten Hag Could Lose His Job This Saturday

Under insurmountable pressure, Manchester United will travel to St. Mary’s Stadium this weekend, and Saha believes Ten Hag’s position may be at stake.

When asked if Ten Hag could get the sack following a defeat to Southampton, Saha said (via Betfred):

“I think so. Against Liverpool, the issue was the performance rather than just the result, so Erik’s under pressure because the team isn’t playing well.

“There were no signs during the game that things were going to be fixed. On Saturday, if Southampton are able to dominate against Manchester United in the same way that Liverpool dominated last week, then the situation would be untenable for Erik ten Hag.”

He added:

“We saw Arne Slot and Liverpool destroy the tactics of Erik ten Hag in their last game. At this moment, it’s not about personalities, it’s about seeing a plan that the players can identify with and cause damage with.

“Sometimes we see players play as individuals or not being able to respond correctly but at the moment, the problem is the game plan. Currently, we can’t identify a clear game plan and that’s why Erik’s being criticised. Things need to improve.”

Since taking charge of United in 2022, Ten Hag has overseen 118 matches in all competitions. Under his tutelage, United has won 69, drawn 15, and lost 34 times. He currently averages just 1.88 points per game.