On December 18, Beijing time, the 17th round of the Premier League's "Double Red Meeting" will kick off at Anfield.
Last year, Manchester United suffered a 7-0 defeat here, setting a series of humiliating records. Now, the disparity between the two teams seems to be even greater, with Liverpool determined to win the title and Manchester United missing a number of key players.
After being eliminated in the Champions League group stage, is Ten Hag's position in jeopardy?
Last season, Manchester United suffered a 7-0 thrashing at Anfield, setting a series of humiliating records.
It was the Reds' biggest league defeat in 115 years, worse than the 7-4 defeat at Liverpool in January 1908.
The last time we conceded seven goals in the league was back in the 60s, the painful memories are unforgettable.
There is a clear contrast in the form of the two teams this season. Liverpool are at the peak of their performance and are determined to defend their title;
Manchester United are out with a number of key players, with captain Harry Maguire and top scorer Ronaldo unavailable.
The disparity between the two teams is huge, and it will be difficult for the Red Devils to turn around the disadvantage on the road.
Manchester United have been really bad this season.
Not only did the league results be poor, but the Champions League group stage was at the bottom of the Champions League with one win in six games, and even did not qualify for the Europa League. Ten Hag's coaching ability has been questioned.
He was more assertive in his handling of team affairs, stripping Harry Maguire of captain and punishing Jadon Sancho and Raphael Varane, which caused rifts in the dressing room.
Even so, as things stand, Ten Hag's position is quite solid.
There are four main reasons: first, he has only been in charge for more than a year, and he has achieved a top-four result in his first season; second, if he terminates the contract, he will need to pay a high amount of compensation, which is beyond the team's ability to bear;
Thirdly, the new team owner has not yet officially taken over, and fourthly, the appointment of a new coach is a gamble in itself, and it is difficult to ensure success.
So, as things stand, even if Manchester United lose again at Anfield, Ten Hag's position is unlikely to be in immediate danger. Of course, if the results continue to be weak, it will be difficult to say the situation in the summer window. However, he is more likely to voluntarily resign than to be terminated. After all, in a giant club like Manchester United, no results is the biggest sin.
Some netizens said: Manchester United is destined to drink seven joys this time, Liverpool will win easily, the Red Devils have collapsed, their strength has dropped too much, and they are not opponents at all.
Some netizens said: I think Manchester United should give Ten Hag more time, this is only a season and a half, and it will rebound in the second half. But Champions League group exit is really intolerable.
Some netizens said: Maguire's non-play is the key, and without him in the backline, Manchester United's midfield will be easily dismantled. Hopefully don't concede seven more goals this time, that's a shame!
To sum up, it is indeed very difficult for Manchester United to avoid "drinking seven ups" again, and it is indeed very difficult to win away. Liverpool is not what it used to be, and its strength is above Manchester United. However, as things stand, Ten Hag's position is relatively secure. So the question is, can Manchester United turn the tide this time and avoid another bloodbath?
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