The Downfall of Manchester United: What Went Wrong for the Red Devils?

May 24, 2024 | Ankit Dawadii 620 Reads

Ankit Dawadii

A Sports Fanatic

Ankit Dawadii

A Sports Fanatic

If you're a football fan, you must be aware that Manchester United is in disarray lately. The once-mighty club has struggled significantly in recent times. The last time the Red Devils clinched the prestigious Premier League title was during the 2012-13 season under the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson. Since that impressive season, the team has gone through six managers in eleven seasons, with their best finish being second place in the 2017-18 season. So, what has caused the downfall of the once-feared Red Devils?

The Players ?

In the recent 2023-24 Premier League season, Portuguese star Bruno Fernandes was the club's top scorer, netting 10 goals in 35 games and providing 8 assists. Young Danish striker Rasmus Hojlund also scored 10 goals in 30 games. Beyond these two, no other player managed to reach double figures. Promising talent Alejandro Garnacho scored just 7 goals, while Manchester United's "superstar" Marcus Rashford also had a quiet season with only 7 goals. The defense was equally problematic, with underperformance across the squad contributing to the team's poor showing.

Erik Ten Hag ?

Erik Ten Hag has had his share of bad luck with injuries, but that doesn’t excuse the poor management. Hired with the hope of reviving the club’s fortunes, Ten Hag hasn’t delivered. Although the team reached the FA Cup Final against Manchester City, their Premier League performance has been dreadful. Ten Hag got the players he requested, like Jadon Sancho, who shined for Dortmund but underperformed for Manchester United and clashed with Ten Hag before finding success elsewhere.

The Glazers ?

The club’s issues lies from the top, starting with the Glazers. Blaming individual performances or injuries only scratches the surface; sacking Ten Hag would likely repeat the cycle that has persisted since Ferguson’s retirement. The systemic problems are linked to the Glazers and their appointed decision-makers. The stadium is in disrepair, and the club lags behind rivals like City and Arsenal. Manchester United can no longer easily attract top players and ends up overpaying for older, past-their-prime talents like Casemiro and Varane, which offers short-term gains but no long-term benefits. The recruitment team’s strategy also needs scrutiny.

Manchester United’s rebuilding phase seems endless. The owners need to make strategic decisions that benefit the club in the long run to navigate the long road ahead.

The opinions presented here are the views of the writer and do not necessarily relfect the opinions of SportsGuff.