September 2nd 2024.
Alan Shearer had the upper hand in a recent clash with Erik ten Hag. The former Manchester United legend had been criticized by the Dutch manager for his "stupid analysis" of the team's performance, but it was Shearer who had the last laugh as Liverpool dominated United in a 3-0 win at Old Trafford on Sunday.
The pressure is now on Ten Hag, who had raised eyebrows with his pre-match comments defending Marcus Rashford and slamming Shearer's criticism on Match of the Day. But Shearer did not hold back in his response, giving a scathing review of United's performance against their arch rivals.
"In his press conference, he said my analysis was 'stupid'. But just look at their performance today, then see," Shearer said on The Rest is Football podcast.
Shearer acknowledged Ten Hag's attempt to protect his player, but couldn't help but point out the truth about United's current state. "Nothing much has changed over the summer, has it? Certainly, in the performances that we've seen," he said.
The former striker also praised Liverpool's new manager Arne Slot, who has already instilled a clear identity in the team after just six or seven weeks in the job. Shearer believes that United, on the other hand, have yet to find their own identity after two years under Ten Hag's leadership.
"When they lose possession, not closing down quick enough, not stopping the crosses, three men in the box again, they are so open it's just incredible," Shearer said, highlighting United's weaknesses. "And when you've got really, really good players like Liverpool does, they're going to punish you. It should have been five or six, they got away with it really."
Ten Hag now has the international break to turn things around before United's next game against Southampton on September 14. But Shearer's analysis has sparked a debate on the team's current situation and has left many questioning Ten Hag's ability to lead the team.
Meanwhile, Shearer has been impressed by Slot's start at Liverpool, and believes that the team is already showing signs of improvement under his leadership. "Already you can see what he's trying to do," Shearer said. "Yet, I just keep seeing the same things with Manchester United week after week after week."
This loss to Liverpool has only added to the growing pressure on Ten Hag, who will now have to prove himself and turn things around for United. But with Shearer's criticism and the team's lackluster performance, the road ahead may not be an easy one for the Dutch manager.
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