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Erik ten Hag signing now faces make-or-break period at Man United after Bruno Fernandes red card
Patience is not something Manchester United fans have in abundance after the terrible 3-0 defeat to Tottenham.
The faith in Manchester United’s long-term project under Erik ten Hag is quickly dwindling after an awful start to the season.
The Red Devils have now won just three out of their opening eight matches this season and the loyal support behind Ten Hag is beginning to ask some serious questions.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s stance on sacking Ten Hag has not changed despite the 3-0 loss to Spurs at Old Trafford, but there is now huge pressure on him to deliver in upcoming trips to Porto and Aston Villa.
All eyes will be on the manager, but one of his signings is also entering a crucial period for their career.
Bruno Fernandes suspended after red card
Bruno Fernandes has struggled for form at the start of the season, and things went from bad to worse when he was sent off for a reckless challenge against Tottenham.
The decision has split opinion, with former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher disagreeing with the red card decision.
Regardless, Fernandes is now suspended for three matches and will be unavailable when he is most needed by Ten Hag.
The Dutchman has plenty of replacement options for Fernandes, but whoever is chosen to fill the void left by the captain has a big task ahead of them.
One of the options presented to Ten Hag is Mason Mount, who has failed to impress since joining United for £55m in 2023.
Mason Mount faces make-or-break period
Mount arrived from Chelsea and was handed the No.7 shirt at Old Trafford, but he has not lived up to expectations.
He has struggled with several injuries and even when fit, he has struggled to get into the team ahead of Fernandes.
But with the Portuguese playmaker now out suspended, Mount has a golden opportunity to step up and justify his huge transfer fee.
Ten Hag has put plenty of faith in Mount and stuck by him despite his struggles – now would be the perfect time for him to repay that favour.
READ MORE: Erik ten Hag is ‘totally convinced’ over Mason Mount doing one thing for Man Utd
Mount came off the bench against Tottenham after Fernandes’ red card, but once again he struggled to make an impact and ended up being substituted off after a head injury.
He will be available for the Porto and Villa matches and if he can’t step up and impress over the next few weeks then his career will continue to plummet.
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