Erik ten Hag’s comments speak volumes on where Aaron Wan-Bissaka stands

Add as preferred source on Google

Erik ten Hag’s comments after Manchester United’s 1-0 win against West Ham United speak volumes on where Aaron Wan-Bissaka stands under the Dutchman.

Following last night’s win against David Moyes’ Hammers, the former Ajax manager was specifically asked about how well Diogo Dalot is playing under his stewardship.

Since the 52-year-old took the reins at Old Trafford, United’s number 20 has started every Manchester United game during the 2022-23 campaign.

When asked about the Portugal international, Ten Hag may have been making a subtle point to the Manchester United board and Wan-Bissaka if you read between the lines.

United’s manager said live on Sky Sports: “I have to mention Man United need two good full-backs [on the left and right] because we have a lot of games to play.”

Ten Hag’s comments speak volumes on where Aaron Wan-Bissaka stands

Despite returning to group training alongside Harry Maguire and Donny van de Beek last week, United’s number 29 has not yet been included in a matchday squad since, unlike the aforementioned duo.

Even against the Irons when Ten Hag had no centre-backs on the bench with Victor Lindelof joining Raphael Varane on the unavailable list due to illness, Wan-Bissaka was nowhere to be seen.

The 24-year-old hasn’t featured for the Red Devils since coming off the bench to play the final four minutes against Liverpool in August.

That’s the former Crystal Palace man’s only appearance this season and his last start for the twenty-time league champions came back in April at Anfield when he played at left-back during a 4-0 loss.

Despite being signed for £50m from the Eagles three years ago, Wan-Bissaka doesn’t suit the profile of player that Ten Hag wants to build his Manchester United side around.

The three-time Eredivisie winner wants to work with technically gifted footballers who are comfortable and confident taking the ball in any pressure situation.

Wan-Bissaka is far from a football purist, and his best work at United has often been when he’s going to ground making tackles.

Lindelof and Tyrell Malacia have been used at right-back this season, and it wouldn’t be a surprise to see Brandon Williams move ahead of Wan-Bissaka in the pecking order as well.

The former England Under-21 international has just over 18 months left to run on his contract at Old Trafford, but it’s hard to see him being offered an extension.

Ten Hag’s comments last night on full-backs may not have been specifically directed at Wan-Bissaka, but every United fan is likely thinking the same that the Dutchman chose the perfect opportunity to send a subtle message to the club’s hierarchy and Wan-Bissaka.