Manchester United risk humiliation as Erik ten Hag faces impending midfield dilemma with 2 Players

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This descent in form, however, is intricately intertwined with the isolation that the 31-year-old has faced within United’s midfield setup during the initial two fixtures.

The integration of Mount, a £60 million acquisition from Chelsea, into his new environment, has yet to synchronize harmoniously.

The union of Mount’s forward-oriented inclinations, complemented by Bruno Fernandes’ instinctual positioning in the advanced strata, has inadvertently paved the way for opposing teams to breech the heart of the Red Devils’ midfield with unsettling ease.

Ten Hag’s ensemble narrowly escaped the clutches of a draw against Wolves, securing a 1-0 triumph at Old Trafford.

However, the scenario took a starkly different trajectory against Tottenham, culminating in a disheartening 2-0 defeat.

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With the impending clash against Nottingham Forest looming, the Dutchman stands on the precipice of a pivotal decision that holds the potential to stave off embarrassment against a player he willingly offloaded earlier this summer.

Enter Anthony Elanga, a 21-year-old winger infused with electric speed, epitomizing the ideal offensive weapon to exploit Ten Hag’s midfield vulnerabilities. His return to the hallowed grounds of M16, following a £15 million departure, is laden with anticipation.

Elanga marked his Premier League debut with a resounding impact, dismantling Arsenal’s defenses and setting up Taiwo Awoniyi, though the effort culminated in a consolation goal during a 2-1 defeat against the Gunners.

Further substantiating his prowess, Elanga resurfaced during Forest’s recent 2-1 triumph over Sheffield United at the City Ground. In the final 20 minutes, he showcased his adeptness in transitions, bolstering his claim for inclusion.

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As the clock ticks ominously, Ten Hag faces a pivotal crossroads in midfield selection. With Mount’s absence extending until after the international break, the Dutch tactician stands presented with two distinct pathways, post his authorization of Fred’s £13 million departure to Fenerbahce earlier this month.

He can opt for continuity by reintegrating Christian Eriksen into the fold, a move reminiscent of last season’s go-to midfield alignment.

Alternatively, the steely presence of Scott McTominay presents a robust countermeasure to mitigate Forest’s threat on swift counterattacks.

Anything short of victory would cast a pall of catastrophe over Manchester United, as they brace themselves for a daunting showdown against Arsenal in the ensuing weekend.

The stakes are high, the decisions pivotal, and the narrative remains in the balance as Ten Hag navigates through this critical juncture.