Manchester United's stubborn tactical setup may be the cause of their troubles

Man Utd's uncoordinated pressing causes huge gaps behind, leaving the single DMF alone against the opposition breaking forward.

Manchester United's poor start to the season continues to frustrate fans and confound critics, because of manager Erik ten Hag's persistent (or stubborn) refusal to adapt his tactical setup. The Red Devils have sought to press high up the pitch, trying to force opponents into mistakes and turn overs close to their goal. To achieve this, Erik ten Hag plays with two 8s pushed up the field, who look to spring the press on the opposition defenders or defensive midfielders.

This is an admirably front-footed strategy in theory. However, this aggressive strategy of two central midfielders positioned high up the pitch has the unfortunate consequence of leaving the single defensive midfielder alone without back up.

It can be prime Casemiro or Busquets but if he is left 1 v 4 no one stands a chance. To compound matters, Manchester United actually are forcing turnovers in the opponent's half, but sadly lack the creativity to play the final pass to generate high xG chances. Rasmus Hojlund's goal drought in the Premier League continues, but he can't do much if he is not receiving passes in the box.

In the video clip above, note Amrabat being left all alone in the middle of the park when Bruno Fernandes and Scott McTominay push all way up. There is a huge gap between the front 5 and the single defensive midfielder. If opponents are successful in playing through the Man Utd press, they are free to waltz forward without any hinderance.

Unfortunately, players like Rashford and Martial can't be trusted to press with conviction in the defensive phase. Rashford doesn't even have the goals this season to overlook his defensive liability.

View the most recent tactics from Man Utd vs Bournemouth

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