Manchester United manager, Erik ten Hag, has recently shared his unique perspective on the club's injury problems that plagued their last season. He believes that the negativity surrounding the team was so severe it led to injuries among his players.
Ten Hag suggests that some members of his squad were not mentally resilient enough to handle the criticism they received. This resulted in their inability to play through pain and contributed significantly to an unprecedented number of injuries among crucial players.
The Red Devils struggled with consistency due to these injuries, finishing in eighth place - their worst-ever performance in the Premier League with a goal difference of minus one. Despite ending the season by defeating Cityzens and clinching the FA Cup, it was a season marked by significant underachievement and frustration.
Defensive struggles and inconsistent team selection
A lack of personnel, particularly in defence, prevented Ten Hag from maintaining consistency in his team selection. The United boss was forced to utilise over 30 different defensive combinations throughout the season.
This sentiment is believed to have been particularly true for forward Anthony Martial who spent most of last season sidelined due to injury after receiving criticism for his performances.
Unexpected players stepping Up
Due to this crisis, unexpected players had opportunities thrown at them. Jonny Evans became a regular fixture in Manchester United's defence due to injuries while teenage sensation Willy Kambwala was unexpectedly called up amidst an injury crisis.
Erik ten Hag also had hoped for careful management of game time for 19-year-old midfield prodigy Kobbie Mainoo but a thin squad meant he saw regular action along with Alejandro Garnacho who ended up starting final 38 matches for United last term.
A season marked by resilience
Despite these challenges faced during last year’s campaign, there were moments worth celebrating as well. Both Mainoo and Garnacho netted in the thrilling 2-1 FA Cup final victory over City, marking a positive end to an otherwise difficult season.
As Manchester United looks forward to the upcoming season, they will undoubtedly be hoping for fewer injuries and more consistency. However, if last season has taught them anything, it's that resilience in the face of adversity can lead to unexpected opportunities and triumphs.
