With the new Premier League season almost upon us, fans will be excited to see what formation Erik ten Hag ultimately decides to play with in Man United’s first game.
The Dutchman achieved perennial success at Ajax. During his time in Amsterdam, Ten Hag won three Eredivisie titles, as well as two Dutch Cups. Impressively, he achieved the domestic double in these competitions, winning both trophies in 2018/19 and 2020/21.
As a result of all this silverware, Manchester United recruited Ten Hag as their new manager after a long selection process.
Unlike at Ajax, the new boss has to navigate a rebuild at Old Trafford. United suffered one of their worst seasons ever, while also going years without silverware.
On the pitch, the Red Devils have suffered from a leaky defence and lack of an attacking identity. Numerous players have also failed to flourish in previous systems, too. So, will the new manager be the man to right the ship? And, if this is the case, what formation does Erik ten Hag plan to play to achieve success?
Ajax tactics
At his former club, Ten Hag deployed a fluid 4-3-3 system. In fact, many observers would actually argue that they set up as a 4-2-3-1. Nevertheless, the flexibility of the side was what contributed most to its success.
The midfield three were made of a holding mid, a box-to-box, and a more attack-minded player. Therefore, the various attacking styles that Ten Hag wished to use could be accommodated. Ajax loved to play with attacking full-backs; in 2021/22, Mazraoui and Daley Blind provided the additional forward threat.
Because of the high full-backs, a holding midfielder – typically Edson Alvarez – dropped in as a short passing option and as defensive cover.
Furthermore, with full-backs providing width, the wingers were free to dip to the inside channels and create overloads for the defence. Overall, the high volume of runs makes for plenty of space that can be used to make chances.
On the ball, Erik ten Hag preached the importance of possession. Therefore, his teams like to dominate the ball, conserving their energy whilst burning the opponents. If they lost it, Ten Hag demanded his team pressed from the front. This way, the side wins the ball back quicker and is in a better position to attack.
The success of this system at Ajax is undeniable. However, will it translate to the Premier League?
What formation does Erik ten Hag play with Man United?
The 4-3-3/4-2-3-1 high-press system is the common choice of current top sides Liverpool and Manchester City. If applied correctly, the formation can translate to good results.
During pre-season, Erik ten Hag has begun to implement his philosophy. He often used the fluid 4-3-3 but did prefer a double-pivot midfield behind an attacking midfielder. Unsurprisingly, this changing style brought mixed results.
United started pre-season with three successive wins, before drawing two and losing one game. One positive that fans took from the games was the improved desire with which the side played, though.
Given their busy schedule, the manager utilised 34 different first-team players across the matches. This allowed him to get a proper look at the entire squad. Unfortunately, the Cristiano Ronaldo saga has slightly overshadowed preparations. The Portugal captain may not feature heavily in their opening league game as a result.
Predicted line-up
For Brighton, many expect a defence of Diogo Dalot, Raphael Varane, Harry Maguire, and Tyrell Malacia. Malacia and Dalot appear to have won the battles for the full-back slots, being the best fits for the system. Goalkeeper David de Gea is a nailed-on starter.
Elsewhere, the midfield is up for debate. McTominay and Fred featured heavily in pre-season as a double-pivot. Despite this, Donny van de Beek played in every game; so the Dutchman may come in if Ten Hag decides on a full-blown 4-3-3. Bruno Fernandes looks sure to play at attack midfield.
The front three is also a difficult one to choose. Martial looked much better in the friendlies, even though he is a doubt for the opener against Brighton after suffering a hamstring injury. If passed fit, he is likely to start. whilst Jadon Sancho appears more settled, too. Meanwhile, the left-wing slot is a coin-toss between Marcus Rashford and Anthony Elanga.
No matter who plays, Red Devils supporters will just hope to start off 2022/23 with three points.
Predicted line-up: De Gea; Dalot, Maguire, Varane, Malacia; Fred, McTominay, Fernandes; Sancho, Martial, Rashford.
Featured Image credit: Getty
