Sir Jim Ratcliffe is intensifying his search for answers on the cause of the unprecedented injury crisis that has heavily contributed to Manchester United’s disastrous season. According to new reports, United’s new kingpin is desperate for answers as he looks to solve the problem ahead of the first season of INEOS’ regime, where vast improvement will be expected.
Ten Hag made a promising start to his reign by ending the club’s six-year trophy drought with the Carabao Cup and finishing third in the Premier League.
But the Dutchman’s fortunes have fallen off a cliff so rapidly this term that it could very well be over after just two years if Ratcliffe decides to sack him after the FA Cup final on May 25.
While not completely to blame, a freakish number of injuries in the United camp have undoubtedly contributed to their struggles to build on a successful 2022/23 campaign.
Ten Hag’s squad has suffered over 60 separate cases of injury or illness that have caused players to miss matches since August, more than double the average across recent seasons.
United reportedly conducted an internal review into the crisis, which has been a major factor in what is at risk of being the club’s worst-ever Premier League campaign.
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However, the lack of improvement is believed to have prompted further action from Ratcliffe, who will want to see quick signs of progression after splashing £1.3billion on a 27.7 per cent stake.
According to the Daily Star, the 71-year-old and advisor, Sir Dave Brailsford, will launch a deep investigation into United’s relentless injuries.
He is said to believe that United will never challenge for the biggest honours again if their most influential players are consistently absent.
The report adds the investigation will feature an intense review of Ten Hag’s training sessions, including his methods, schedules and the intensity at which he asks his players to work.
Ratcliffe and his confidants will also assess every player’s running distances, as well as data that showcases how much pressure is put on them around matchdays.
It’s claimed that United figures have dismissed the fact Ten Hag’s side played 62 games on either side of the Qatar World Cup last season as the sole reason for the backlog of injuries.
And the club’s new hierarchy are ready to do what it takes to snuff out the true causes as part of their bid to restore former glories at Old Trafford.
