At the heart of Manchester United’s woes lies a problem as old as sport itself

This season alone, United's statistics reflects their slump - 12 defeats and 11 wins in 24 matches.

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag after the UEFA Champions League, Group A match at Old Trafford, Manchester. Picture date: Tuesday December 12, 2023.

FOR one brief, tantalising moment last February, it appeared that Manchester United supporters were about to receive their wish. The EFL Cup was in the bag, thanks to a 2-0 win over Newcastle, and Erik ten Hag looked capable of succeeding where his predecessors over the previous decade had failed, in finally proving a worthy successor to Alex Ferguson.

It was a forlorn hope. In the 46 league and cup games since, United have won 23 and lost a dizzying 18. This season alone, the statistic reflects the slump even more - 12 defeats and 11 wins in 24.