Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag plays down pressure after Aston Villa draw

Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has played down the mounting pressure on his future at the club, claiming that he has the backing from the board. United played out a 0-0 draw against Aston Villa on Sunday, October 6.

In Short

• United are in 14th place after the Villa draw
• Ten Hag said that he has the backing from the board
• Ten Hag remains under scrutiny with board meeting on October 8

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag reaffirmed his alignment with the club's senior management despite the team's dismal start to the season, following a 0-0 draw against Aston Villa on Sunday. United, sitting in 14th place with only two wins from nine games across all competitions, are enduring their worst start in the Premier League era. The goalless result was accompanied by growing media speculation about Ten Hag's future.

The club’s leadership, including co-owner Jim Ratcliffe, CEO Omar Berrada, sporting director Dan Ashworth, and technical director Jason Wilcox, were in attendance at Villa Park, closely observing the team’s performance. Speaking after the draw, as quoted by Reuters, Ten Hag said that he has the backing from the board and the team showed belief and faith during the match.

"We are all on board together, on one page, we know what we are working through it's a long-term process," Ten Hag said. "We have come through two very tough away games (including Thursday's 3-3 Europa League draw at Porto).

"This is a team, we showed the belief and faith we have."

A win would have relieved some of the pressure on Ten Hag, and United came close, with Bruno Fernandes almost breaking the deadlock in the second half when his long-range free kick struck the bar. Marcus Rashford also tested Villa goalkeeper Emi Martinez, who produced two key saves to deny the visitors.

"We created loads of chances in our seven (Premier League) games but we have to step up," Ten Hag said.

"We have to take into consideration (striker Rasmus) Hojlund is returning, he's still coming up to full fitness. But others are stepping up. I was impressed by Rashford, also (Alejandro) Garnacho is so good and Antony at the end."

Despite the frustration, Ten Hag made a point to acknowledge United's travelling supporters. For the manager, the display of gratitude might have felt like a small victory amid mounting pressure.

With the Premier League taking a break until October 19 due to international fixtures, Ten Hag remains under scrutiny, and the club's hierarchy is expected to discuss his future during their monthly meeting in London on Tuesday. Co-owner Jim Ratcliffe recently commented that decisions regarding Ten Hag’s position are not his to make, leaving the Dutch manager's fate uncertain as United navigate this turbulent period.