Erik ten Hag already finds himself under pressure following Manchester United’s 2-1 defeat to Brighton. The result highlighted the need for tactical adjustments to their strikerless system, particularly in light of United’s struggle to create clear-cut chances. As they prepare for a crucial clash against Liverpool, we are predicting Ten Hag to make significant changes to his approach, including a shift to the 4-2-3-1 formation.
The 4-2-4 Formation: A Double-Edged Sword
Ten Hag has experimented with a 4-2-4 formation this season, which showed promise during the latter stages of the previous campaign. However, its flaws have become evident, especially in United’s recent performances. The formation’s reliance on Bruno Fernandes and Mason Mount as false nines has left the team without a traditional center-forward, resulting in a lack of cutting edge in attack. This issue was painfully apparent against Brighton, where United struggled to generate meaningful opportunities, especially with Marcus Rashford out of form.
Read: Manchester United’s Tactical Struggles: Ten Hag’s 4-2-4 Experiment Is Backfiring
Defensive Frailties Still Persist from Last Season
The 4-2-4 formation was also intended to bolster United’s defensive structure by providing more support in midfield. Despite these intentions, defensive lapses continue to plague the team. Against Brighton, errors from Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martinez, and Casemiro led to two avoidable goals. These mistakes raise questions about whether the formation itself is contributing to a lack of concentration and organization at the back.
Gary Neville, in his recent analysis, criticized United’s defensive setup, noting that individual mistakes are being compounded by structural issues within the team. He emphasized the importance of maintaining discipline, particularly in defensive transitions.
The Case for a Focal Point in Attack
The most glaring issue with the current system is the absence of a focal point in the attack. Without a recognized striker, United’s forward line lacks the necessary presence to trouble opposing defenses. Fernandes and Mount, while talented, are not natural strikers, and this has left United’s attacking play disjointed. The introduction of Joshua Zirkzee in the second half against Brighton offered a glimpse of what United could achieve with a more traditional forward. Zirkzee’s presence helped to open up space for United’s wingers and midfielders, providing a much-needed boost to their attacking play.
Read: A look at Ten Hag’s back to basics 4-2-3-1 formation if Manuel Ugarte transfer is complete
Time for a New Formation?
As United prepares to face Liverpool, a tactical shift seems inevitable. The 4-2-4 formation, while innovative, is not delivering the desired results. A switch to a 4-2-3-1 formation, with a recognized striker leading the line, could be the solution. This change would allow United to maintain their defensive shape while also providing a more potent attacking threat.
In this setup, Zirkzee could start as the lone striker, with Fernandes moving back into a more traditional No. 10 role. Garnacho and Diallo could occupy the wide positions, offering pace and creativity on the flanks. Rashford’s poor form and Diallo’s excellent start to the season mean that Garnacho should replace Rashford in the starting lineup. Casemiro and Kobbie Mainoo would likely form the midfield pivot, providing a balance between defensive solidity and forward progression. Once new signing Manuel Ugarte is match fit, we expect him to eventually replace Casemiro in the starting lineup
Predicted Lineup Against Liverpool
The upcoming match against Liverpool is a pivotal one for Ten Hag and Manchester United. A shift to a 4-2-3-1 formation, with three key changes, could be the answer to their current problems. A positive result against Liverpool could not only ease the pressure on Ten Hag but also set the tone for the rest of the season.
