Manchester United, one of the most successful football clubs in history, has a long-standing reputation for its dominance in the Premier League. However, when it comes to their away record against the big teams, the Red Devils have struggled to maintain their superiority. Under the management of Erik ten Hag, United’s performances on the road against top-tier opponents have been disappointing, leaving fans and pundits questioning their ability to compete for the highest honors.
Who Are The Big Six?
Based on tradition and reputation, the big six in this instance is Manchester City, Arsenal, Liverpool, Tottenham, Newcastle United and Chelsea. These teams are the main competitors and biggest threat to Manchester United.
Analyzing The Results
Arsenal Vs Manchester United – 3-1 Loss
Tottenham Vs Manchester United – 2-0 Loss
Manchester City Vs Manchester United – 2-1 Loss
Tottenham Vs Manchester United – 2-2 Draw
Newcastle United Vs Manchester United – 2-0 Loss
Liverpool Vs Manchester United – 7-0 Loss
Arsenal Vs Manchester United – 3-2 Loss
Chelsea Vs Manchester United – 1-1 Draw
Manchester City Vs Manchester United – 6-3 Loss
The Official Record
With all these results considered, United have won 0 games against the big six, drawn 2 and lost 7. Their goal difference is -18 in these fixtures and they have conceded 28 goals for a return of 10 goals. This is arguably one of the worst away records against strong opponents in Manchester United history.
Lack of Consistency
One of the key issues contributing to Manchester United’s poor away record against big teams is their lack of consistency. While they have managed to secure victories against struggling sides, their performances against top-tier teams have been inconsistent at best. This inconsistency has hindered their ability to challenge for the title and establish themselves as a dominant force in the league.
Furthermore, United’s inability to secure crucial points away from home against their direct rivals has cost them dearly. These dropped points have not only affected their league position but have also had a detrimental impact on their confidence and momentum. The difference under Ten Haag, is that United have been humiliated in 7-0 & 6-3 losses, showing just how mentally weak these players are.
Room for Improvement
To address their dismal away record against big teams, United must focus on several areas for improvement. Firstly, their defensive solidity needs to be strengthened, as they have struggled to contain the attacking prowess of top-tier opponents. A more organized and disciplined defensive unit will provide a solid foundation for success on the road.
Secondly, United must adopt a more proactive and assertive approach. Too often, they have found themselves on the back foot, allowing the opposition to dictate the game. A more proactive and aggressive mentality will enable them to take control of matches and assert their dominance.
Additionally, United must address their lack of consistency by improving their overall team cohesion and balanace. Players out of position or weak mentally are continually being selected which is why the results are just so bad.
The Importance of Mental Resilience
Another critical aspect is that they must address is their mental resilience when playing away from home. The pressure and hostile atmosphere of visiting the big teams can often impact players’ confidence and decision-making. Developing mental resilience and a strong mentality will enable the team to remain focused and composed in high-pressure situations.
This was evident as during the COVID lockdown when no fans were allowed in, they had the best away record in the league and also set the joint record for longest run unbeaten away from home.
The Way Forward
I don’t know if there is a way forward for Ten Haag unless he changes his ways when selecting the team, he must choose players based on form and balance and not his favourites such as Rashford who can cause big inbalance issues when playing as he often loses the ball. If Ten Haag can do this and get a big first win, this could change a lot for United, however that remains to be seen.
