Erik ten Hag and his coaching staff reportedly believe that the absence of Lisandro Martinez and the leadership he provides in the dressing room are partly to blame for Manchester United’s woes this season.
United suffered their 13th Premier League loss on Monday night at the hands of an in-form Crystal Palace side.
The Red Devils were thoroughly beaten 4-0, courtesy of a brace from Michael Olise and goals in either half from Jean-Phillipe Mateta and Tyrick Mitchell.
For the first time in United’s history, they’ve been defeated twice by Crystal Palace in a single season – a fact that highlights the massive drop in standards at Old Trafford.
Club boss Ten Hag is under more pressure than ever before in his United tenure and calls for his sacking are only growing louder.
According to The Guardian’s Jamie Jackson, the Dutchman and his coaches are of the firm opinion that Martinez’s prolonged absence has played a part in the team’s struggles this term.
The Argentine has only managed 11 games across all competitions in a campaign riddled with injuries and fitness issues. These setbacks have prevented him from building on a positive first season at the club that saw him quickly endear himself to supporters.
The newspaper points out, “Manchester United coaching staff believe their squad has too few vocal leaders and that the injured Lisandro MartÃnez has been sorely missed in that regard.”
“The Guardian understands Erik ten Hag’s coaching staff have noticed how much quieter the changing-room environment is in MartÃnez’s absence and believe this had been detrimental to performances and results.”
“Although MartÃnez is not the only vocal player, his presence is considered vital in creating a winning mentality and driving the squad on. The captain, Bruno Fernandes, is the on-field leader and leads by example.”
The report adds that United are hopeful Martinez will be consistently available next season.
Up next for Ten Hag and his players is the daunting task of facing title challengers Arsenal at Old Trafford this weekend.
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