Scott McTominay, Manchester United's midfielder, has openly discussed the fluctuating atmosphere within the club, particularly under previous managerial tenures, describing it as "toxic at times." However, he emphasized that the current squad stands united and supportive of their manager, Erik ten Hag, amidst ongoing challenges.
Following a disheartening 3-0 defeat to Bournemouth at Old Trafford, a match that added to the team's struggle in the Premier League, McTominay didn't shy away from admitting the team's inconsistencies. "We have had many amazing players, and right now, we have big characters in the dressing room," McTominay stated, acknowledging the team's fluctuating performance under various managers.
The Scottish midfielder, who debuted with Manchester United in 2017 under Jose Mourinho, highlighted the current support for Ten Hag, contrasting it with the past atmosphere in the club. "It's not just a case of like [with] some of the other managers where it has been a little bit toxic at times - the boys are firmly behind the manager," he added, expressing confidence in the coaching staff.
Scott McTominay: "It is not just a case of like [with] some of the other managers where it has been a little bit toxic at times."
Toxic is the key word. Scott played under Mourinho, Ole & now Erik ten Hag.. We need to move on from LVG, Ole & Mou players. pic.twitter.com/MJODP2wuBd — (@ElijahKyama_) December 12, 2023
Manchester United's journey in the Champions League also mirrors their domestic challenges. Positioned at the bottom of Group A, the team must secure a win against Bayern Munich to keep their hopes alive for progressing further in the competition. This necessity is compounded by the need for a specific outcome in the match between Copenhagen and Galatasaray.
McTominay didn't mince words about the team's issues, pointing out their inconsistency and the heavy schedule. However, he insisted that the team couldn't rely on these as excuses, emphasizing the need for collective solutions from the players.
Erik ten Hag, in recent remarks, identified injuries as a significant factor in the team's difficulties. He noted the stability in the previous season's defensive lineup, which contributed to better performances. "When we get back to a regular base, we will play better, and there is a better chance you are consistent," Ten Hag expressed, confident in the team's potential to achieve high-level performances.
Interestingly, Ten Hag's decision to join Manchester United was met with skepticism from his friends, who warned him of the 'impossible job' at Old Trafford. Despite this, Ten Hag took the helm at the beginning of the 2022-23 season, following a successful tenure with Ajax. His first season saw a high note with the end of the club's six-year trophy drought and a third-place Premier League finish.
Nevertheless, the current campaign hasn't matched the previous season's success. Manchester United finds itself in sixth place in the Premier League, trailing 10 points behind the leaders, Liverpool. The upcoming face-off between these two teams at Anfield will be a crucial moment in United's season.
McTominay's candid reflection on the club's recent history and current dynamics offers an inside view of the pressures and transformations within one of football's most storied clubs. As Manchester United navigates through this transformative phase, the support for Ten Hag and the emphasis on unity and resilience among players seem crucial for their revival and future successes.
