Ten Hag’s record against big opposition is a sackable offence

Carlo Garganese

• 3 Dec 2023 10:37 GMT
• 3 min read

Manchester United have lost every game this season against teams in the top eight of the Premier League.

The damning statistic was upheld on Saturday as United were comfortably beaten 1-0 by Newcastle United in a game where they were dominated from start to finish.

It was the latest disappointing performance and result for Erik ten Hag against elite opposition this season.

Indeed, United have lost every game this term against a top eight side.

They were beaten 2-0 by Tottenham in north London on August 19 as goals from Pape Sarr and a Lisandro Martinez own goal did the damage.

In September they were defeated in north London again, as they were swept away 3-1 by league leaders Arsenal at the Emirates.

In the very next game, United were outplayed by Roberto De Zerbi’s Brighton in a 3-1 loss at Old Trafford. Brighton are currently eighth in the table.

On October 29, Man Utd were thrashed 3-0 by champions Manchester City in the derby at Old Trafford. It was a game that highlighted the big gap between the two rivals.

Four days later United were thrashed 3-0 at home again, this time by Newcastle, as they exited the League Cup.

And Newcastle moved above United on Saturday into fifth place in the Premier League by winning 1-0 over United at St James’ Park.

The one elite team that United played in the Champions League this season, Bayern Munich, also resulted in a defeat. The German champions won 4-3 in Munich in September.

So in seven matches this season against top opposition, Man Utd have won none, drawn none, and lost seven. They have let in 19 goals in these seven matches.