Ten Hag's thinking may put Liverpool at a disadvantage

 

Adrian Clarke on the adjustments the Dutchman can make against the Reds on Monday

Adrian Clarke examines crucial tactical considerations and potential game-changers for Matchweek 3.

Prior to Liverpool's visit to Old Trafford on Monday, a short-term tactical rethink may help to address some of the problems Man Utd is currently experiencing.

Erik ten Hag wants his team to develop into a proficient possession-based unit by playing out from the back.

However, Ten Hag's team passed the ball sloppily and ineptly during losses to Brentford and Brighton & Hove Albion.

A handful of United's players have appeared tense while under pressure inside their own half, cheaply giving up possession in dangerous positions.

Against a Liverpool team known for their shutting down, continuing with the same tactic might not be a gamble worth taking.

Jurgen Klopp's team constantly excels at tightening up as a unit to apply pressure, despite their own subpar start.

Since the beginning of current season, no team in the top division has gained possession more frequently.

So far, Liverpool's opponents have both had success cutting through beyond the final defender.

Aleksandar Mitrovic raced into space after a Fulham fumble to earn and score a penalty, leaving Jurgen Klopp's team short on defenders on opening weekend.

Then, in the 1-1 draw at home against Crystal Palace, the opposition got through a press thanks to Vicente Guaita's clipped ball to Eberechi Eze, who then let Wilfried Zaha free to score after eluding the offside trap.

With lengthier passes played in behind, United may have the best opportunity of surprising Liverpool by going after their quick, wide strikers, Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho, or Anthony Elanga.

Another choice that needs to be taken into account is navigating their press with a longer dispersion.

This strategy was successfully applied by Palace (23%) and Fulham (22.1% long passes).

Recognizing past mistakes

Last Saturday, Ten Hag lined up Fred in the middle of the pitch and Christian Eriksen and Bruno Fernandes on either side of him.

They made a choice that offered them five outfielders on offense and five on defense, and it backfired.

Ten Hag might adopt a more practical stance given Liverpool's nine goals they scored last season against United in two convincing wins.

In 2021/22, only champion Manchester City managed to score against Liverpool while utilizing five attacking outfield players.

United will be frantically hoping for a win to finally start their season.