Manchester United and Aston Villa shared a dull draw to keep the pressure on visiting manager Erik ten Hag as his side made their worst start to a Premier League season.
It leavecs Manchester United down in 14th heading into the international break with just two wins from their first seven games, their worst start to a season since the English top flight’s revamp. There were a few encouraging signs for Ten Hag, particularly defensively where Jonny Evans excelled, but the club’s hierarchy have plenty to mull. Jim Ratcliffe, Dave Brailsford, Dan Ashworth and the rest watched on at Villa Park and will surely consider a change of manager during the international break.
A soporific Sunday outing perhaps reflected the pair’s midweek exertions, with neither able to move through the gears or create consistent scoring chances. Bruno Fernandes struck the crossbar with a fine second half free kick and Jaden Philogene had a late glimpse for Aston Villa, but there was otherwise little to entertain the crowd.
Ten Hag's future
The pressure is mounting on Erik ten Hag's shoulders. After a disastrous start to the season with just two wins from their opening six fixtures, Manchester United's performance against Aston Villa was a chance for the manager to show that his side can compete with the best. However, the Red Devils struggled to create chances and lacked the same intensity that they showed in their recent victory over Bayern Munich. Ten Hag's job security is now in question as his side heads into the international break.
What went wrong for Manchester United?
The Red Devils' poor performance can be attributed to several factors. The team seems to be lacking confidence, and they struggled to break down Aston Villa's solid defense. They lacked the intensity and creativity that has been a trademark of their play under ten Hag. In the end, the game was a frustrating one for Manchester United supporters, who watched their side fail to capitalize on their chances. Despite a few encouraging signs from their defensive line, the Red Devils failed to find a way through and were forced to settle for a draw. It is a result that has put a lot of pressure on ten Hag. The Red Devils will have to improve their performance in the coming weeks, or ten Hag's future at the club could be in doubt.
Aston Villa's momentum
Aston Villa, on the other hand, were hoping to build upon their stunning victory over Bayern Munich in the Champions League. They entered the game with a clear confidence and determination, but they were unable to find the spark that allowed them to dismantle the German giants. They did, however, manage to hold Manchester United at bay and claim a point, which will be a positive result for them.
A draw that reflects the game
The draw at Villa Park was a fair reflection of a game that lacked intensity and quality. Both sides were content to settle for a point, and neither was able to create enough clear-cut chances to secure a victory. Manchester United will be disappointed not to have taken three points from a team that was struggling, but they will be encouraged by their improved defensive performance. Aston Villa will be pleased with their ability to hold the Red Devils at bay, but they will need to be more clinical in attack if they want to challenge for a Champions League spot.
The Road Ahead
With the international break looming, both teams have a chance to regroup and reassess. Manchester United will be looking to use this time to address their shortcomings and get their season back on track. Aston Villa, on the other hand, will be hoping to maintain their positive momentum and continue their push for a top-four finish. This game was a reminder of the challenges that lie ahead for both teams. It was a frustrating game for the supporters, and it left many wondering what the future holds for both teams. But with the international break providing a much-needed respite, both Manchester United and Aston Villa will be hoping to come back stronger and ready to challenge for silverware.
