Man Utd's Defeat to Galatasaray Fuels Unity as Erik ten Hag Backs Andre Onana - Exclusive Insight

Man Utd's Defeat to Galatasaray Fuels Unity as Erik ten Hag Backs Andre Onana - Exclusive Insight

Erik ten Hag confident in Man Utd's unity despite Galatasaray defeat; supports goalkeeper Onana amid recent mistakes

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is unfazed by the possibility of losing his job, despite his team's disastrous beginning to the season, highlighted by a home Champions League defeat to Galatasaray. In a rain-soaked match at Old Trafford, United surrendered a 2-1 advantage and succumbed to a 3-2 defeat, marking their poorest season start since 1986.

They are experiencing their first instance of losing six out of their first ten games in 37 years, raising concerns about their prospects of advancing past the group stages as only two matches have been played. However, Ten Hag, who firmly states that there are "no excuses" for their disappointing displays, maintains that everyone affiliated with the club is unified in their objectives.

Man Utd's Defeat to Galatasaray Fuels Unity as Erik ten Hag Backs Andre Onana - Exclusive Insight

Image:

Mason Mount looks dejected after Man Utd's latest loss

Asked whether he feared for his job, the Dutchman said: "Last season: brilliant, terrific, more than we could expect.

In this project, we were aware of the presence of common gaps. Currently, we find ourselves in a challenging phase that is evident to everyone. However, we are united in our efforts, fighting together, staying together, and supporting each other. This includes myself, the directors, and the entire team. Together, we will strive to improve and overcome these challenges.

'He will bounce back' - Ten Hag backs Onana

United had victory in their grasp, as two goals from Rasmus Hojlund, sandwiching a response from former United winger Wilfried Zaha, propelled them towards a crucial triumph.

However, Kerem Akturkoglu once again equalized the score before a terrible mistake by Andre Onana triggered their downfall. Onana's dreadful pass resulted in Casemiro fouling Dries Mertens in the penalty area, leading to the Brazilian's dismissal. Although Mauro Icardi failed to convert the ensuing penalty, he redeemed himself three minutes later by scoring the winning goal, securing a historic triumph for the Turkish team on English territory.

Man Utd's Defeat to Galatasaray Fuels Unity as Erik ten Hag Backs Andre Onana - Exclusive Insight

Image:

Andre Onana's costly mistake completely shifted the game in Galatasaray's favor. This incident follows his previous gaffe during the Group A opener against Bayern Munich, where he proved to be a liability. However, his former manager at Ajax, Ten Hag, remains confident in Onana's ability to bounce back.

"We are delighted with our goalkeeping squad, especially Andre," Ten Hag expressed. "Having reached the semi-finals and the finals of the Champions League proves his potential to become one of the finest goalkeepers worldwide.

"He has consistently demonstrated his exceptional abilities, both on and off the field. Even when he makes mistakes, he exhibits great resilience and I am confident that he will continue to excel in upcoming matches."

Eriksen: Man Utd lacking awareness when in front

Christian Eriksen, who came on as a substitute at half-time with the score tied at 1-1, asserts that Manchester United does not lack confidence but needs to enhance their situational awareness when they take the lead in matches.

The Danish player conveyed to TNT Sports: "It is extremely disheartening, and there was a palpable silence in the dressing room. We had some promising moments during the game, but every time we manage to go ahead and score a goal, we tend to concede shortly after, which greatly complicates matters for us. This is an aspect that needs to be swiftly rectified.

"I believe it's not about confidence, but rather about being fully aware and sharp. Failing to capitalize on scoring opportunities twice is something we should not disregard, as we have unfortunately done in previous matches this season. It boils down to making incorrect choices at crucial moments.

Man Utd's Defeat to Galatasaray Fuels Unity as Erik ten Hag Backs Andre Onana - Exclusive Insight

"

Image:

Christian Eriksen believes Man Utd are lacking 'awareness' and 'sharpness' when they take the lead in games

There is a significant amount of work that needs to be accomplished, particularly when it comes to the finer details. Many of the opportunities our opponents had were a result of our own mistakes. If we do not make mistakes, we will not concede goals as we have been doing.

As of now, we have only participated in two matches in this competition. There are still numerous games left to play and make up ground. We are aware that we must win every game in order to have a chance of advancing.

Morrison: Pressure on Ten Hag | Hojlund a positive

Clinton Morrison speaking on Soccer Special: "It's a bad night and there has to be pressure on Erik ten Hag now.

"I don't think they played badly. The game could have been over if they had taken their chances.

"There is no organisation and they are getting opened up. They were far too open at the back.

Rasmus Hojlund was the only bright spot tonight; he showcased exceptional talent and proved to be a genuine player. He displayed remarkable ball control, led the attack, and successfully netted two superb goals. A concerning period for Manchester United.

Man Utd's Defeat to Galatasaray Fuels Unity as Erik ten Hag Backs Andre Onana - Exclusive Insight

Image:

Rasmus Hojlund scored twice for Manchester United against Galatasaray at Old Trafford

Neville: Man Utd a graveyard for players and managers

Discussing United's disastrous start to the season, former player Gary Neville expressed his opinion on the club, referring to it as a "graveyard for coaches and players." He highlighted the inconsistent performance on the field, numerous injuries, and multiple off-field issues contributing to the team's struggles.

I sympathize with the manager; I understand that many will argue he needs significant improvement, which is expected given his position at Manchester United. However, the club is plagued by major issues that have persisted for the past decade, as other managers have also experienced. Unless these problems are addressed, we will continue to witness underperforming teams.

This club has become a challenging environment for both coaches and players. I made this observation years ago, and it remains true. The term "graveyard" is not an exaggeration. Only a handful of players have truly excelled at Manchester United in the past decade. Despite being sought after by other clubs, they arrived at Manchester United and failed to meet expectations. Why does this happen? It is because the club does not have the proper cultural norms to embrace players as they should. Rectifying this issue is imperative.

What's next for Man Utd?

October 7: Brentford (H) - Premier League, kick-off 3pm

October 21: Sheffield United (A) - Premier League, kick-off 8pm, live on We

October 24: Copenhagen (H) - Champions League, kick-off 8pm

October 29: Manchester City (H) - Premier League, kick-off 3.30pm, live on We

November 1: Newcastle (H) - Carabao Cup, kick-off 8.15pm, live on We

November 4: Fulham (A) - Premier League, kick-off 12.30pm