How de Jong Could Have Changed United's Game
Exploring the Impact of Failed Recruitment on Ten Hag's Tactics and United's Future
Devils manager Ten Hag previously coached De Jong during their time together at Ajax, where they clinched the Eredivisie title and made it to the semi-finals of the Champions League. Despite United's initial attempt to sign De Jong prior to his move to Barcelona in 2019, and subsequent negotiations during Ten Hag's arrival, a transfer never materialized.
De Jong's style of play was integral to Ten Hag's possession-oriented approach at Ajax, and his potential arrival in 2022 could have facilitated the implementation of similar tactics at Old Trafford. However, the failure to secure a midfielder like De Jong to complement Casemiro has led to
Unitedstruggling to assert dominance on the field, resorting instead to a more direct playing style that has drawn criticism towards the manager.
In an interview with Sky Sports, Ten Hag expressed how De Jong and Casemiro would have formed a formidable midfield partnership, perfectly suited to the Ajax style of play he aimed to replicate at United.
The future of Ten Hag at United remains uncertain, with his tenure possibly depending on the outcome of the FA Cup final against Manchester City. United's upcoming Premier League fixture against Crystal Palace presents an opportunity to improve their standing in the league, as they aim to bridge the gap with Tottenham in fifth place.
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