What Went Wrong? A Deep Dive into Player Performance and Tactical Flaws

Manchester United’s FA Cup Nightmare: A Performance Autopsy

Manchester United’s 2025-26 season continues its downward spiral with an early and, frankly, predictable exit from the FA Cup. The loss, while not entirely unexpected given their recent form, has amplified the scrutiny on individual player performances and Erik ten Hag’s tactical approach. This isn’t just a defeat; it’s a symptom of deeper issues plaguing the squad. Let’s delve into a player-by-player analysis of what went wrong.

Goalkeeper and Defence: A Foundation Crumbling

Andre Onana (4/10): Onana’s performance was, yet again, far from reassuring. While he wasn’t directly responsible for all the goals conceded, his distribution was erratic, and his command of the box was non-existent. His shot-stopping, often touted as his strength, was merely average. The hope that he would evolve into a commanding presence in the net is fading fast. The modern goalkeeper is as much a distributor as a shot stopper, and Onana’s distribution remains a significant liability. Many are now questioning if the sizable fee paid to Inter Milan was justified.

Diogo Dalot (5/10): Dalot offered some attacking impetus down the right flank, but his defensive contributions were questionable. He was often caught out of position, leaving acres of space for the opposition to exploit. While he put in a shift, his decision-making in crucial moments was poor. Dalot’s inconsistencies continue to be a source of frustration for fans.

Lisandro Martinez (6/10): Returning from injury, Martinez showed glimpses of his former self, displaying aggression and a willingness to battle. However, he was visibly lacking match fitness and struggled to maintain his usual level of composure. His presence did provide a temporary boost, but it wasn’t enough to shore up the leaky defense. The Argentine’s return is a positive sign, but he needs time to regain full sharpness.

Raphael Varane (4/10): Varane’s decline continues. He looked a shadow of the world-class defender he once was, lacking pace and often getting outmuscled by the opposition’s attackers. His positioning was suspect, and his decision-making was slow. The veteran defender’s time at Old Trafford may be nearing its end. His experience is no longer compensating for his physical limitations. The lack of pace is a particularly worrying trend, especially in a league as physically demanding as the Premier League.

Luke Shaw (5/10): Shaw, like Dalot, provided some attacking threat, but his defensive work rate was insufficient. He was often slow to track back, leaving his teammates exposed. While he showed some flashes of brilliance, his overall performance was underwhelming. The England international needs to rediscover the consistency that made him a key player in previous seasons. The recurring injury issues are also a growing concern.

Midfield: Creativity and Control Vanishing Act

Casemiro (3/10): Casemiro’s performance was arguably the most disappointing of the lot. He was slow, cumbersome, and offered little protection to the defense. His passing was inaccurate, and he failed to break up opposition attacks effectively. The Brazilian midfielder looks a shadow of the player who once dominated the Champions League. His lack of mobility is becoming increasingly apparent, and he struggles to cope with the pace of the Premier League. Some are suggesting that his best days are behind him.

Bruno Fernandes (6/10): Fernandes, as always, tried to drive the team forward, but his efforts were largely in vain. He created a few chances, but his passing was often sloppy, and he lost possession too easily. While his commitment cannot be questioned, his effectiveness was limited. Fernandes’ frustration was evident throughout the match, and he needs more support from his teammates. The burden of being the team’s primary creative outlet is clearly taking its toll.

Kobbie Mainoo (6.5/10): One of the few bright spots in an otherwise dismal performance. Mainoo displayed composure and maturity beyond his years. He was tidy in possession, made some intelligent runs, and showed a willingness to tackle. While he is still developing, Mainoo has the potential to become a key player for Manchester United. His emergence is a positive sign for the future, but he cannot carry the team on his own.

Attack: Toothless and Lacking Inspiration

Marcus Rashford (4/10): Rashford’s struggles continue. He was anonymous for large periods of the game, offering little threat to the opposition defense. His decision-making was poor, and his finishing was woeful. The England international looks a shadow of the player who scored 30 goals last season. His lack of confidence is palpable, and he needs to rediscover his form quickly. The constant speculation surrounding his future is undoubtedly affecting his performances.

Rasmus Hojlund (5/10): Hojlund worked hard upfront, but he lacked service and support. He had a couple of half-chances, but he failed to convert them. The young striker needs time to develop, but he is currently struggling to make an impact. The lack of quality service is a major factor in his struggles. He needs better support from the midfielders and wingers.

Alejandro Garnacho (5.5/10): Garnacho showed flashes of brilliance, but he was often isolated and struggled to make a consistent impact. He has pace and trickery, but he needs to improve his decision-making in the final third. The young winger has potential, but he needs more experience and guidance. His raw talent is undeniable, but he needs to refine his game.

Substitutes: Minimal Impact

The substitutes introduced late in the game failed to make a significant impact, highlighting the lack of depth and quality within the squad. Anthony Martial, in particular, offered absolutely nothing. The bench simply doesn’t have the firepower to change the course of a match when the starting eleven are struggling.

Tactical Analysis: Ten Hag’s Strategies Under Scrutiny

Erik ten Hag’s tactical approach is increasingly coming under scrutiny. The team lacks a clear identity and often appears disjointed and lacking in cohesion. The midfield is frequently overrun, the defense is porous, and the attack is toothless. The manager needs to find a way to inject some creativity and dynamism into the team. The tactics appear rigid and predictable, and the players are struggling to implement them effectively. A more flexible and adaptable approach is needed.

The Bigger Picture: A Club in Crisis

This FA Cup exit is just the latest chapter in Manchester United’s ongoing struggles. The club is in desperate need of a major overhaul, both on and off the pitch. The Glazer family’s ownership continues to be a source of discontent among fans, and the lack of investment in the squad is hindering the team’s progress. A new direction is needed to restore Manchester United to its former glory. The club needs a clear vision, strong leadership, and a commitment to investing in the squad. The current situation is simply unsustainable.

Conclusion: A Season Spiraling Out of Control

Manchester United’s FA Cup defeat was a culmination of individual errors, tactical failings, and a general lack of quality within the squad. The team is in a crisis, and Erik ten Hag is under immense pressure to turn things around. The fans are growing increasingly frustrated, and the club needs to act decisively to address the issues plaguing the team. The season is rapidly spiraling out of control, and drastic measures are needed to salvage something from it. This performance was a stark reminder of the challenges facing Manchester United and the urgent need for change.

FAQ

Why are Manchester United struggling so much this season?

Manchester United’s struggles stem from a combination of factors including inconsistent player performances, tactical issues, injuries to key players, and a lack of overall team cohesion. The squad also lacks depth in certain positions, and the players are struggling to adapt to Erik ten Hag’s tactical approach. Furthermore, off-field issues, such as the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the club’s ownership, have undoubtedly had a negative impact on the team’s morale and performances.

Who is to blame for Manchester United’s FA Cup exit?

Blame cannot be placed solely on one individual. It was a collective failure involving poor performances from several key players, questionable tactical decisions from the manager, and a general lack of fight and determination from the team as a whole. While individual errors contributed to the defeat, the overall performance lacked the quality and intensity required to win a crucial FA Cup tie.

What needs to change at Manchester United?

Several changes are needed at Manchester United to address the current crisis. Firstly, the club needs to invest in quality players to strengthen the squad and provide greater depth. Secondly, Erik ten Hag needs to find a tactical system that suits the players he has at his disposal and fosters greater team cohesion. Thirdly, the club needs to address the off-field issues that are impacting the team’s morale and performances. Finally, the players need to take greater responsibility for their performances and show more commitment and determination on the pitch.

Is Erik ten Hag the right man for the job?

Erik ten Hag’s position is under increasing scrutiny, and his future at Manchester United is uncertain. While he has shown glimpses of promise, he has struggled to consistently deliver results and has faced criticism for his tactical decisions and team selections. Ultimately, whether he is the right man for the job will depend on his ability to turn things around and deliver improved performances in the coming months. He needs to demonstrate that he can build a team that is capable of challenging for trophies and competing with the best teams in the Premier League and Europe.

What are Manchester United’s chances of qualifying for the Champions League next season?

Based on their current form, Manchester United’s chances of qualifying for the Champions League next season are slim. They are currently well off the pace in the Premier League and need to significantly improve their performances to close the gap. To qualify, they will need to string together a consistent run of wins and hope that other teams slip up. However, given their recent struggles, it will be a difficult task.