The Manchester United manager’s plans hit a major snag with the defender sidelined for up to four weeks due to injury.

Erik ten Hag’s ambitions at Manchester United have suffered a significant blow following the injury of Harry Maguire. The seasoned defender is expected to be out for up to four weeks after suffering a calf injury during the goalless draw against Aston Villa on Sunday. The setback comes at a challenging time for Ten Hag, who is under immense pressure to turn around a faltering season at Old Trafford.

Maguire, who had just reclaimed his starting position in the squad, limped off the pitch at half-time after feeling discomfort in his calf. Subsequent scans revealed a slight tear, forcing him to confirm that he would be sidelined for several weeks. “Frustrated to pick up an injury at the weekend,” Maguire stated. “Will be a few weeks on the sideline for me, but I’ll come back stronger.” This injury not only hinders his prospects at club level but also raises doubts about his participation in the upcoming international fixtures, as interim England boss Lee Carsley now faces the prospect of recalling a player who won’t be fit for the games against Greece and the Republic of Ireland next month.

The timing couldn’t be worse for United, as they are scheduled to face several key opponents in the Premier League, including Brentford, West Ham, Leicester, and Chelsea. Moreover, a trip to Fenerbahce for the Europa League clash on October 24 will also see Maguire absent. With these matches critical to reviving United’s season, Ten Hag’s tactical options are severely limited.

Initially, Ten Hag had planned to give Maguire a string of matches to build his form, especially after disappointing performances from Matthijs De Ligt and Lisandro Martinez. Both players were dropped for the Villa Park encounter, paving the way for Maguire’s return alongside veteran Jonny Evans. The 36-year-old Evans impressed on the day, earning the man of the Match award for his solid defensive display, but the loss of Maguire leaves a glaring gap in United’s back line.

With the team struggling and languishing in the bottom half of the Premier League table, former United star Wayne Rooney has weighed in, emphasising that the current squad needs to “do better.” He expressed his disappointment at seeing a club he holds dear in such a precarious position, stating, “It’s tough to see them where they are right now.” Rooney’s comments echo the sentiment of many fans who expect more from a team with United’s rich history.

Ten Hag’s position remains uncertain, with reports suggesting that the club’s hierarchy is contemplating potential replacements should results fail to improve. Among the names being discussed are some high-profile managerial candidates, which could add further pressure on Ten Hag as he seeks to justify his position in light of the mounting criticism.

The injury to Maguire is just the latest in a series of setbacks for Ten Hag this season. As he grapples with squad morale and tactical consistency, the absence of key players at critical junctures exacerbates an already challenging situation. It highlights the fragility of a squad that was once expected to challenge for silverware this term.

Maguire’s absence may prompt Ten Hag to rethink his strategy as he prepares to field a reshuffled defence in the upcoming fixtures. The manager’s ability to adapt and inspire confidence in his players will be tested more than ever, with the spectre of managerial changes looming large should results not improve.

The road ahead is fraught with challenges, not just for the players, but for Ten Hag as well. Each match will be scrutinised, every decision analysed, and the pressure to deliver results will only intensify. As United’s players prepare to take the field in the coming weeks, they will need to rally together to support one another and alleviate the growing tension surrounding their manager.