Ten Hag outlines two key traits that need improving as Real Madrid down Manchester United in pre-season

Erik ten Hag wants better pressing and finishing from Manchester United after Real Madrid loss

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag wants his team to push harder and be more cynical in front of goal after losing to Real Madrid at NRG Stadium. The Old Trafford team faced Carlo Ancelotti’s team on July 27 in Houston, Texas. Unfortunately, the Red Devils found themselves in a losing position as Los Blancos scored twice. Speaking to the Manchester Evening News after the 2-0 defeat at the Santiago Bernabeu, Ten Hag argued that United should put more pressure on their opponents and take chances when they came.

“Two things: the pressing can be better from the start and scoring goals. And I think we need more players who are capable to be in the one-on-ones.”

Madrid took the lead after a great finish by Jude Bellingham who passed Andre Onana. Aljenadro Garnacho and Marcus Rashford had the opportunity to bring us back to a stable solution.

However, they failed to defeat Andriy Lunin. The Netherlands coach started with the England international in ninth place. Last season he was our top scorer and led our attack.

However, the 25-year-old probably plays best on the left wing. About an hour later, the manager called Jadon Sancho to fill in for Rashford. The former Borussia Dortmund star is playing in ninth place in our pre-season.

The 23-year-old scored against Arsenal in our 2-0 win over the Gunner at the MetLife Stadium. However, we evidently cannot go into next season without adding a recognised striker to our ranks.

Anthony Martial is the only natural option at Ten Hag’s disposal at the moment. However, the French national is on the sidelines for now and suffered multiple fitness issues in the previous campaign.

Hopefully, United will buy the right profile of players who will not only be able to help us score goals but also fit into the Dutch manager’s style of play.