PRESSURE is mounting on Erik ten Hag as Manchester United have lost three games on the bounce – but they face Premier League strugglers Burnley TONIGHT.
The Red Devils suffered a 4-3 defeat in their opening 2023/24 Champions League encounter against Bayern Munich.
And fans are beginning to question the signing of goalkeeper Andre Onana who has now conceded three or more in his last three outings.
However, United have a huge opportunity to turn their fortunes around as they take on a Burnley side that sits 19th in the table.
But former Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany will be desperate for his team to add to United's woes.
SunSport exclusively revealed a four-man dressing room bust-up took place following the defeat to Brighton.
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Meanwhile, reports claim several players are unhappy with Ten Hag's decision to axe Jadon Sancho.
And it's also been alleged that some stars feel the Dutchman's criticism is not dished out fairly, with some players immune from a telling-off.
The pressure is now building ahead of Saturday's crunch match at Turf Moor.
And Burnley will surely have the bit between their teeth as they seek their first win of the season against a rival.
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What is their form like?
Burnley are yet to record a single league win this season, losing three times already.
Their last result saw them gain a point against Nottingham Forest.
And with a trip to Newcastle on the horizon, Kompany will be hoping to take advantage of the turmoil at United first.
The Red Devils are faring little better this term, losing their last three in all competitions.
United have shipped ten goals in that time too.
But they will be desperate to avoid further humiliation by losing to a promoted team tomorrow.
What is the team news?
Vincent Kompany will have to make do without South African striker Lyle Foster who will begin a three-match ban after receiving a straight red card against Nottingham Forest.
Michael Obafemi (hamstring), Hjalmar Edkal (knee) and Darko Churlinov (blood poisoning) will all miss out for Burnley, while Vitinho's knee concern is set to be further assessed.
Elsewhere, Raphael Varane and Mason Mount could return to the fold after being spotted training with the team earlier this week.
However, Sofyan Amrabat and Kobbie Mainoo are expected to be out for a little longer as they are only taking part in individual sessions.
Long-term absentees Luke Shaw (thigh), Aaron Wan-Bisaka (thigh), Tyrell Malacia (knee) and Amad Diallo (knee) remain sidelined.
And there is still no return date for Jadon Sancho or Antony, who will both sit this one out.
Who will be the star men?
Both sides are dangerous down the left.
It means Luca Koleosho and Marcus Rashford are sure to make the biggest impacts at Turf Moor.
What have the managers said?
Vincent Kompany: "I have been at a big club before. I know how it is when you lose a couple of games – the pressure can mount.
"When in a top club you are always one loss away from a crisis. That doesn't just have to be United – it is the same in every top club.
"You always need time to adapt and improve – not just for Erik ten Hag but all of us.
"One thing this manager has demonstrated is that he is extremely capable. There is no doubting that."
Erik ten Hag: "I know it's not always only going up. You will have your gaps and you can get stronger from it as long as you stay together," the Dutchman said.
"That's what we are doing in the dressing room, with all staff and coaches.
"Everyone is united and, at United, you fight. It's about the team and as a team we haven't been getting results.
"Individuals haven't brought the performance you expect and it's not only one player but more, including the manager.
"It's about 11 players doing their job. We attack with 11 and defend with 11, so when one or two don't do their job then it goes like a pack of cards."
SunSport's prediction
Burnley will be sure to go all-out for the win on Saturday night.
But United could have too much strength in depth if they are able to call upon some newly-available stars.
A fourth straight defeat also seems unlikely considering United haven't played too badly in their recent matches.
And we're tipping the Red Devils to win 3-1 against the Clarets.
When is Burnley vs Man Utd?
- Manchester United travel to Burnley TODAY, Saturday, September 23.
- It is scheduled to get underway at 8pm BST.
- Turf Moor in Burnley is the allocated arena for this encounter and it can host approximately 21,944 fans.
- The Red Devils cruised to a 2-0 League Cup 4th-round win when the sides last met in December 2022.
What TV channel is it on and can it be live streamed?
- Burnley vs Manchester United will be broadcast LIVE on TNT Sports 1
- Coverage is expected to commence from 7pm BST – a whole hour before kick-off.
- Fans can also stream the entire match live on BT.com
- Alternatively, follow SunSport's blog for minute-by-minute coverage including pre-match and post-match reaction.
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What are the odds?
- Burnley to win 10/3
- Draw 3/1
- Man Utd to win 8/11
*Odds courtesy of Paddy Power are correct at time of publication
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