Erik ten Hag acknowledged that Manchester United’s 4-0 defeat against Crystal Palace was the nadir of their season thus far. However, he maintains his confidence in his ability to lead the team in a positive direction.

On Monday night, Michael Olise scored two goals, while Tyrick Mitchell and Jean-Philippe Mateta also scored, resulting in United’s season reaching a new low. As a result, they are now in ninth place in the Premier League with a goal difference of minus-three.

United have allowed 81 goals in all competitions this season, which is their highest number in a single campaign since 1976-77. Their makeshift defense was overwhelmed at Selhurst Park, and Casemiro was particularly vulnerable playing as a center-back.

Olise was given an excessive amount of room in the middle for Palace’s initial goal, which resulted from a throw-in. Ten Hag disclosed that the players failed to follow his instructions.

“It is an objective that should not occur because we provide explicit instructions on how we should defend against it,” he stated to Sky Sports. “They failed to bring it onto the pitch.” We were severely impacted.It is quite disheartening. Not meeting expectations or performing below the desired level. Undoubtedly the most devastating loss. We should have performed more effectively.

“As a team, we acknowledge that our performance was flawed. We made significant errors and failed to adhere to the plan, script, and rules that were in place.”

“There was one problem, however, on the left side, two players were simultaneously defending against one player.” The defending displayed was of a notably low standard.

Casemiro failed to execute his tackle on Olise during the play leading up to the first goal, however Ten Hag maintained that the entire team was responsible.

“Attributing this solely to one player is not possible.” “It is a collective effort,” he stated. “The occurrence of a throw-in after conceding the first goal is unacceptable.”

“This team lacks the ability to adhere to rules, adjust to slightly different situations, organize effectively, and maintain control in such situations.” There are five players positioned around the ball, preparing for a throw-in. However, executing the throw-in is currently not feasible.

“The lack of performance is evident and indisputable.” We failed to behave according to our desired standards, and our performance is unsatisfactory. We are quite dissatisfied. We should have maintained our determination and resilience, just like our supporters did.

“There are always underlying causes, as everyone can observe, that contribute to the challenges we face with our backline.” Ultimately, we must confront and handle the situation.

Ten Hag has expressed assurance in staying at the club beyond the summer, despite the uncertainty surrounding his job due to INEOS implementing extensive changes to the football system. Furthermore, he remained unaffected by the recent setback.

“Indeed,” he affirmed in response to Sky Sports’ inquiry about his suitability for the position. “If we can acquire the appropriate players, our team possesses a strong roster.” Our team’s performance is significantly impacted when we are without the majority of our defensive players.

“I will persist in my efforts.” I meticulously trained the squad to the best of my abilities. The performance was subpar, and I acknowledge my part for it. However, I am determined to regain my motivation and adequately prepare for the upcoming game on Sunday.