Out-of-sorts Manchester United will seek redemption for a humiliating home loss to Tottenham Hotspur when they take on Porto on Thursday.
Erik ten Hag’s career at Old Trafford is at risk following a disastrous 3-0 defeat to Spurs last Sunday.
Fans eager to see if the Red Devils can bounce back will be tuning in to catch the match as part of UK football on TV coverage, with the Dutchman fighting for his skin.
Devastated supporters are tired of excuses, with many already urging the Theatre of Dreams chiefs to relieve the ex-Ajax manager of his duties, as per Express Sport.
If there was a time for Ten Hag to reach his magic box for some tricks, it’s now.
The upcoming Europa League showdown at Estadio do Dragao could well determine his fate.
Faceless side
Spurs’ emphatic triumph in Man United’s backyard was only the tip of the iceberg. The writing was on the wall long ago.
United couldn’t beat Crystal Palace a week ago despite the Eagles being one of only five sides yet to win after four Premier League rounds.
A frustrating 1-1 stalemate against FC Twente in their opening Europa League outing compounded the matter following a goalless draw at Selhurst Park.
It feels like Ten Hag struggles not only tactically but personally. It’s as if he cannot find a way to motivate this group of players.
His once-effective methods have seemingly lost their impact, leaving the squad lacking direction and drive.
One last chance?
Anything other than three points in Portugal will likely spell the end of Ten Hag’s tenure.
Porto could put the final nail in the Dutchman’s coffin, but they’ve not enjoyed past meetings with Man United.
Except for a 2-1 home win in the 2003/04 Champions League round of 16, they’ve failed to beat the Red Devils in all five remaining UEFA-sanctioned fixtures (D3, L2).
Such an unenviable record, combined with a 3-2 defeat at Bodo/Glimt in the maiden Europa League round, suggests Porto could throw Ten Hag one last lifeline.
