Manchester United’s midfield is not working – what’s missing? | Dominic Booth

Erik ten Hag needs solutions to address an unbalanced midfield that left Casemiro exposed against Wolves and Tottenham

The current feeling is a familiar one for Erik ten Hag and Manchester United. Their season is just two games old and performance levels have been markedly below expectation, as players grapple with the manager’s tactical demands. Just as they did 12 months ago – after damaging defeats to Brentford and Brighton in a stuttering start to Ten Hag’s reign – United find themselves under the microscope.

They were fortunate in their league opener against Wolves, ceding 23 shots but somehow escaping with a smash-and-grab victory. They were brighter, initially, at Tottenham, but in the second half became overwhelmed by Ange Postecoglou’s energised side. United’s dysfunctional midfield is taking the brunt of criticism from supporters and pundits, with questions surrounding the £55m acquisition of Mason Mount and former captain Gary Neville anticipating “big problems” if no more midfield signings are made. So whereas Ten Hag was able to find a near-perfect short-term solution with the addition of five-times Champions League winner Casemiro a year ago, the club are struggling to find the answers this time. What are Ten Hag’s options?