LONDON – Once again, Manchester United’s manager Erik ten Hag finds himself at odds with recent match outcomes. Following a 3-0 loss to Tottenham, Ten Hag dismissed the result due to what he considered a refereeing error. The same frustration reemerged on Sunday as United suffered a 2-1 defeat to West Ham, with VAR’s intervention handing West Ham a decisive penalty in the 87th minute. Jarrod Bowen’s successful spot-kick sealed the score, extending Man United’s recent string of setbacks.
Man United’s Strong Start Undone by Familiar Shortcomings
Despite dominating the early game, Ten Hag’s team couldn’t maintain their advantage. Man United looked composed initially, as Bruno Fernandes created early scoring chances for Alejandro Garnacho, who missed twice, and later botched a header of his own. Diogo Dalot’s close-range miss drew laughter from the crowd, underscoring United’s struggle to convert clear opportunities.
Man United’s inefficiency cost them again, as West Ham manager Julen Lopetegui made strategic half-time substitutions that shifted the game’s momentum. Lopetegui’s decision to bring on Crysencio Summerville paid off, with Summerville’s pace and dribbling breaking down United’s defense. Summerville set up West Ham’s first goal and Bowen’s late penalty, securing their victory.
Ten Hag Questions VAR Decisions, But Man United’s Struggles Run Deeper
After the game, Ten Hag voiced frustration with VAR inconsistencies, comparing it to previous rulings he felt had unfairly impacted United. However, the statistics paint a difficult picture. United managed just eight goals this season, with Fernandes leading the league in shots without a goal. Garnacho and Rashford’s inconsistent performances add to United’s attacking concerns. Despite producing an xG of 1.48 in the first half, United failed to capitalize, while West Ham surged to a 2.98 xG by full-time, highlighting the effectiveness of Lopetegui’s adjustments.
What’s Next for Man United and Ten Hag?
United currently sit near the bottom of the Premier League, with matches against Chelsea, Leicester City, Ipswich Town, and Everton ahead. Failure to capitalize on these games could solidify United’s mid-table status.
