Manchester United will face Southampton in their third Premier League game of the season. After winning their first game against Fulham, the Red Devils suffered back-to-back losses. That is why it is important that Manchester United get back to winning ways at St. Mary’s.
United boss Erik ten Hag will be under pressure going into this game. He has already entered his name in the Premier League sack race after that abysmal performance against Liverpool. Manchester United was blown away by their bitter rival on their own turf.
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That is why Erik ten Hag will be looking to prove his critics wrong in this Southampton vs Man United game. But, he cannot keep the same playing XI. Also, his tactics need to change as well. So, here are the 3 things Man United should change against Southampton.
3 things Man United should change against Southampton
Drop Rashford for Amad
Marcus Rashford has been poor from the start of the season. In all three games, he looked invisible. This is something that Manchester United cannot afford from their star man. If he is not performing, he should be benched. And, Amad looks hungry and he deserves a chance. He has been impression this season. Thus, he should start instead of Rashford.
Start Ugarte
Kobbie Mainoo has been a revelation at Manchester United. But, he needs support. And, Casemiro cannot provide that. Also, Mainoo is young and should not be overexposed. That is why instead of dropping the veteran Casemiro, Ten Hag can drop Mainoo and start Ugarte. No matter what, Manuel Ugarte must start for the Red Devils.
Stop relying on counter-attacks
Look, the reason Manchester United fans were excited to have Erik ten Hag as their manager was his style of play at Ajax. However, since joining the Red Devils, the Dutch manager has yet to implement his style of play. United still relies on counter-attacks. They will be playing away with the newly-promoted Southampton team. So, Ten Hag cannot rely on counter-attacks in this game as he should press from the front.
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No matter what, this will be a game that Erik ten Hag has to win. If he fails to get three points in this game, the pressure will mount. That is why this Southampton vs Man United game for him will be a crucial juncture in his stint as the manager of the Red Devils.