Erik Ten Hag admits big Manchester United worry after USA tour

Erik ten Hag has admitted he is worried about the defensive capability of his Manchester United side following their pre-season tour of the United States.

The Red Devils played three games in the United States, losing to Arsenal and Liverpool either side of a victory against La Liga side Real Betis.

Even in the latter, United failed to convince defensively and across the trio of matches combined, conceded seven goals.

Ten Hag is now out of time to run any more experiments with his side, with United taking on rivals Manchester City in the Community Shield at Wembley on Saturday and the Dutchman is, understandably, worried about defensive frailties.

“There were mixed feelings, I would say. I think I have seen positive bits, but the way we concede goals, we are, of course, not happy with it,” Ten Hag said following Saturday’s crushing 3-0 loss to Liverpool, thanks to goals from Fabio Carvalho, Curtis Jones and Kostas Tsimikas (via manutd.com).

“Of course, Liverpool are a very good side. They are very aggressive, and they have lots of goalscoring abilities, so they did very well. But the way we conceded, we are not happy with it.”

Ten Hag bemoans lack of ‘efficiency’

While United’s defensive displays stateside have been worrying, their profligacy in front of goal against Liverpool was also a cause of frustration.

United outshot Liverpool 18-9 at Williams Brice Stadium in South Carolina, hitting the target with eight of them compared to five from their opponents.

“As I said, I think there were good bits, and the first goal is always very important. I thought Liverpool played very well, but they were also very efficient,” said Ten Hag.

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