Exclusive Insights: Erik ten Hag Reveals Crucial Strategies To Elevate Team Performance at Arsenal

Erik ten Hag's second season at Utrecht secured them a spot in European football. Likewise, his second season at Ajax resulted in his first title and almost led the club to the Champions League final. The underlying message from his career so far is that when everything falls into place, success follows.

The question is, how soon can Manchester United replicate this achievement? With two victories out of three games, their performance has improved compared to last season. However, their shaky start, including narrow home wins against supposedly weaker teams like Wolves and Nottingham Forest, raises doubts about their convincing form.

The loss at Tottenham resulted in severe criticism, inquiries about the midfield composition, and concerns regarding a missing element. However, there is also optimism. With the recent signings made on the deadline day, there is confidence that Ten Hag can lead this team to progress.

During our discussion at the team's training facility, he will openly acknowledge the shortcomings in both defense and offense. Nevertheless, he is keen on maintaining a sense of composure before the crucial match against Arsenal on Sunday. Panicking is unnecessary.

"I have already witnessed numerous games in the Premier League," he shares with We. "None of the teams have achieved the desired shape and form just yet. This is typical at the beginning of a season. It takes time for everything to settle in and enhance. As managers, it is our responsibility."

Furthermore, he observed more positive signs against Forest.

"We made significant strides in our attitude, resilience, and determination. Our approach was truly dominant. At certain moments during the game, we even held onto 90 percent of possession, effectively keeping our opponents on the backfoot. Despite their compact defense, we managed to create numerous scoring opportunities."

The underlying statistics also provide reasons for optimism. Ten Hag had previously mentioned his goal of transforming United into a pressing force, which initially posed challenges due to the inherited squad. However, there is now evidence indicating that this vision is gradually becoming a reality.

After three matches, United has consistently dominated possession in the offensive third, surpassing all other teams in the Premier League. Additionally, they have successfully disrupted their rivals' passing sequences within that area more frequently than any other competitor.

"Is this the desired outcome from his perspective?" "Definitely. We were very successful in winning the ball, recovering possession, and doing so in advanced areas of the field. We excel in this aspect of the game. However, we could improve our performance during transition phases. When we manage to regain possession so high up the pitch, we must capitalize on that advantage."

Why is he so invested in this pressing strategy?

He clarifies, "To effectively control a game and outperform our opponents, proper execution of the pressing technique is crucial. It's not always necessary to press high up the field; there are instances where a deeper pressing approach can be equally effective. In these moments, our team possesses the capability to become a potent threat."

However, in my strategy, my main goal is to consistently provide something for the fans. Our aim is to overpower our opponents, play a proactive and dynamic style of football, which includes pressing. Additionally, we need to ensure that our in-possession game is flawless.

Ten Hag counters the criticism by highlighting various aspects. Firstly, he emphasizes their past achievements, stating, "We have been highly successful when Casemiro, Eriksen, and Bruno play together." This claim holds true as well, as United have accumulated 42 points from 17 Premier League matches when this trio starts – a performance that reflects championship-worthy form.

Furthermore, he passionately argues that his midfield has been left vulnerable due to the shortcomings of both the defense and the attack. "This was undeniably a collective issue. We thoroughly analyzed the situation and pinpointed the areas of concern to the team," he clarifies.

"The root of the problem stemmed from the lack of compactness in the defense, as well as the slow or non-existent reaction from the forwards. It is crucial for the team to function as a cohesive unit. Unfortunately, not every player met the expected standards. We dedicated extensive effort over the past fortnight to address this particular aspect."

We must strive for improvement, particularly when confronted by Arsenal's exceptionally skilled team. When lacking proper organization, difficulties are bound to arise. To prevent such issues, we must ensure that we are taking the appropriate actions. We must also exert greater expectations on our players.

During critical moments in the games, we need to meet and uphold the highest standards. It is crucial for both the offensive and defensive lines to meet these standards. Failing to comply with the established rules will inevitably lead to problems. This holds true for any team.

Standards and rules are fundamental for Ten Hag. They are the concepts that he consistently emphasizes and the core foundations of his work. Revamping this team has presented numerous challenging situations that demand careful management.

Even at present, there is a feeling that the summer has been mainly about dealing with problems rather than building. The signings made on deadline day serve as proof of this. Amrabat is the midfielder who can help implement Ten Hag's dynamic vision, while Reguilon is the provisional backup for the left-back position. There is no time for adjustment.

How fast can players grasp his rules? "It's not a simple task," he concedes. That might be one of the reasons why he prefers to recruit former players. Amrabat, who used to play for Utrecht, now joins the former Ajax trio of Lisandro Martinez, Andre Onana, and Antony at Old Trafford.

"Yes, but each circumstance is unique," Ten Hag remarks.

Returning to our previous achievements, my playing style differed between my time at Utrecht and Ajax, as well as my current approach at Manchester United compared to my time at Ajax. The club's identity and the players' capabilities greatly influence this, and as a result, I blend in my own ideas to form a unique amalgamation.

The beginning of my second season with Utrecht was challenging, particularly due to the loss of several players. Similar to Ajax's experience of losing Matthijs de Ligt and Frenkie de Jong, it was not an easy situation.

The start of every season poses its own difficulties. However, the primary focus is on accumulating points in order to establish belief and confidence. By progressively advancing through the process, the game will eventually become smoother and more successful.

Arsenal

Manchester United

Sunday 3rd September 4:00pm

Kick off 4:30pm

We may see Rasmus Hojlund in competitive action for the first time in the match against Arsenal on Sunday. The arrival of the club's new £60m striker serves as a reminder that this is a long-term project, which has the potential to come together soon if Ten Hag's directives are adhered to.

A victory against the Gunners would be a much-appreciated boost. Is it a statement win? "I don't think in terms of statements. My focus is on what we need to do to win the game. We welcome the challenge and aim to excel under the circumstances. We will fight them," he explains.

"And to win, of course."

Watch Arsenal vs Manchester United live on We Premier League from 4pm this Sunday; kick-off 4.30pm