# Manchester United's Tactical Adjustments: How Ten Hag Aims to Turn the Tide
## A New Direction: The Arrival of Erik Ten Hag
Erik ten Hag's arrival at Manchester United has brought a breath of fresh air to Old Trafford. Following a disappointing 2022-23 campaign, which saw the club finish seventh in the Premier League, Ten Hag has implemented a radical rethink in terms of tactics, training, and team culture. The Dutch manager has emphasized the importance of structure, pressing, and high intensity, aiming to restore the club's reputation as a dominant force in English football.
## A Structured Approach: The 4-2-3-1 Formation
One of Ten Hag's first moves has been to adopt a more structured defensive system. The 4-2-3-1 formation has been a cornerstone of his approach, with a double pivot in midfield providing stability and control. Casemiro and Declan Rice have been pivotal in this system, their ability to break up play and transition into attack has given United a much-needed edge. The full-backs are also being utilized more effectively, with Rasmus Hojlund and Aaron Rowe often bombing forward to support the attack.
## Reviving the Wing-Back System
Ten Hag has also resurrected the wing-back system, a tactic that was once synonymous with Manchester United under Sir Alex Ferguson. Rasmus Hojlund, in particular, has thrived in this role, providing width and overlap on the flanks. The wing-backs are given a license to attack, and their contribution to United's attacking play has been significant. This system not only adds depth to the attack but also provides cover for the midfield, allowing the defensive pair of Victor Lindelöf and Joelinton to focus on their primary duties.
## Attacking With Purpose: A Focus on Wingers and Link Play
One of the most noticeable changes under Ten Hag has been the emphasis on wingers. Jadon Sancho and Anthony have been given more freedom to roam the pitch, with the manager encouraging them to exploit defensive gaps and deliver dangerous crosses. The relationship between the wingers and the central attackers, such as Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho, has been a key part of United's attacking play. The wing-backs' ability to link up with the attackers has also added another dimension to their play.
## A High Pressing Philosophy
Defensively, Ten Hag has implemented a high press that is as aggressive as it is effective. United's midfielders are instructed to press high up the pitch, intercepting passes and forcing opponents into mistakes. This approach has resulted in a higher number of turnovers, which in turn have created scoring opportunities. The pressing style also suits the fitness levels of the squad, with Ten Hag often rotating his midfielders to maintain a high energy level throughout the game.
## Building for the Future
Ten Hag's tactical adjustments are not just about immediate results; they are about laying the foundation for long-term success. By investing in young talent, embracing a structured defensive system, and fostering a culture of hard work, the manager is aiming to create a team that is both tactically adaptable and mentally robust. The early signs are encouraging, with United looking more cohesive and confident in their performances.
## A New Era for Manchester United
As the 2023-24 season progresses, the world will be watching to see if Ten Hag's vision can translate into sustained success on the pitch. With a renewed focus on structure, pressing, and attacking intent, Manchester United is aiming to turn the tide of their recent struggles. If Ten Hag can continue to mold this group into a cohesive unit, the reds could once again be considered one of the Premier League's elite sides.