Skip to main content

5 Man Utd players who underperformed last season that can turn things around under Erik ten Hag

These five Manchester United players will be hoping for a better campaign under Erik ten Hag next season.

Manchester United had a season to forget last campaign with the club finishing sixth in the Premier League with 58 points – their lowest tally recorded in the competition.

The Red Devils began the campaign well under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, but after a poor run of games the Norwegian was sacked and replaced by Ralf Rangnick on an interim basis until the end of the season.

United also failed to make an impact in domestic and European competitions, leading to the club going a fifth season without silverware.

However, it wasn’t just the coaching staff that came under fire. The Red Devils’ squad were also criticised for their performances, with pundits and fans demanding more from the players.

Harry Maguire was on the receiving end of the majority of the comments. The United captain struggled with his form last campaign, making numerous mistakes that led to the opposition scoring.

The Red Devils no.5 wasn’t the only star highlighted for their poor performance last campaign, with several other senior players singled out.

With that being said, let’s take a look at five United stars who underperformed last season that can turn things around under Ten Hag.

Harry Maguire

Photo of Harry MaguireAs previously mentioned, Maguire was heavily criticised for her performances and lack of leadership in the last campaign, leading to fans demanding he be dropped and stripped of the armband.

The centre-back will be closely monitored in Ten Hag’s first runs of games and will be hoping he can prove his worth to his new boss, especially with his £80m price tag.

Donny van de Beek

Photo of Donny van de BeekThe Dutchman struggled for game-time at United last season and is yet to establish himself as a regular on the team sheet. He spent the second-half of the last campaign on loan at Everton and helped them secure their Premier League status.

However, the new season could be a huge one for Donny van de Beek. The 25-year-old is no stranger to Ten Hag having played under him at Ajax, where he scored 32 goals and provided 29 assists in 110 games.

Anthony Martial

Photo of Anthony MartialAnother player who had a forgetful season last year, Anthony Martial struggled to find the net at United, only scoring once before joining Sevilla on loan for the second-half of the last campaign.

His form in Spain was no different, netting just once in 12 appearances. The Frenchman did show some promise in United’s pre-season clash with Liverpool on Tuesday, scoring a well-taken goal.

Marcus Rashford

Photo of Marcus RashfordThe Englishman struggled with his form last season, netting just five goals in 29 appearances and providing two assists. He came under fire from fans for his lack of urgency when out of possession and composure when on it.

However, there is a talented forward there and one who can cause opposition defences problems when fully fit and focused.

Jadon Sancho

Photo of Jadon SanchoLast summer’s £73m signing didn’t live up to the hype he generated when he arrived at Old Trafford, but will be hoping he can prove his worth next season.

Jadon Sancho possesses all the attributes to be a great winger for United, whether that be on either wing. Ten Hag’s style of play could be exactly what he needs to show his talent.



 Author: Aiden Beswick

Aiden Beswick is a journalist covering men's and women's football. He also has interests in professional wrestling and netball and has interviewed stars from each sport. He has covered several big sporting event, including Euro 2020 and the 2020 Olympic Games.
»