BREAKING NEWS:“On the Brink: Maguire’s Late Header Rescues United, But Can It Save Ten Hag’s Job?”
In a high-stakes Europa League clash that saw Manchester United’s season teetering on the brink, Harry Maguire’s last-minute header rescued a vital point against FC Porto. On a night where United’s early promise gave way to familiar defensive frailties, they were forced to dig deep, finishing the game with 10 men after Bruno Fernandes was sent off. The draw, while salvaging a point, left fans and pundits questioning whether it’s enough to save manager Erik ten Hag, who is reportedly on the verge of losing his job.
### United’s Strong Start Fades Amid Defensive Collapse
The match began with United showing impressive attacking intent. Within the first 20 minutes, goals from Marcus Rashford and Rasmus Højlund gave the Red Devils a 2-0 lead, leaving Porto stunned and seemingly on the ropes. Rashford’s opener came after a defensive error by Porto goalkeeper Diogo Costa, and Højlund followed up with a composed finish to double the advantage.
But as has been the case too often this season, United’s defensive vulnerabilities quickly resurfaced. Porto’s veteran striker Pepe capitalized on a rebound to pull one back, and by the 35th minute, Samu Omorodion had leveled the score with a brilliant brace. United’s defense, often criticized for lacking organization, was in disarray, leaving huge gaps that Porto expertly exploited [[❞]](https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/porto-manchester-united-live-stream-score-result-2024-b2622723.html) [[❞]](https://www.footballtransfers.com/en/transfer-news/uk-premier-league/2024/10/arsenal-chelsea-man-utd-chido-obi-martin-vitor-reis-erik-ten-hag-sack-latest-footballtransfers-recap).
### Bruno Fernandes Sent Off Again
Bruno Fernandes, already under scrutiny for his leadership, added to United’s woes by receiving his second red card in as many matches. His dismissal, following a reckless challenge, left United with 10 men for the remainder of the game. The captain’s actions have drawn criticism, as his indiscipline is seen as emblematic of a squad struggling to maintain composure under pressure [[❞]](https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/porto-manchester-united-live-stream-score-result-2024-b2622723.html).
Fernandes’ red card only fueled speculation that the squad is losing faith in their manager. Reports have surfaced that the players are becoming increasingly frustrated with Ten Hag’s tactics and lack of clear leadership during difficult moments [[❞]](https://www.footballtransfers.com/en/transfer-news/uk-premier-league/2024/10/arsenal-chelsea-man-utd-chido-obi-martin-vitor-reis-erik-ten-hag-sack-latest-footballtransfers-recap).
### Maguire’s Heroics Keep United in the Fight
As Porto pressed for a winner in the dying moments, it was Harry Maguire, often a lightning rod for criticism, who stepped up. In the first minute of stoppage time, the much-maligned center-back powered in a header from a Christian Eriksen corner, silencing the Porto crowd and providing a lifeline to his team. The goal not only rescued a crucial point but also bought Ten Hag some time as speculation about his future swirls [[❞]](https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/porto-manchester-united-live-stream-score-result-2024-b2622723.html) [[❞]](https://confidentials.com/manchester/whats-on-manchester-october-2024).
After the match, Maguire acknowledged United’s recurring defensive issues, stating: “When you get 2-0 away from home, you have to be more solid. There were far too many gaps, and we were punished for it. It’s something we need to improve on if we want to be successful this season” [[❞]](https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/porto-manchester-united-live-stream-score-result-2024-b2622723.html).
### Ten Hag’s Future Hangs in the Balance
Despite the dramatic late goal, Erik ten Hag remains under immense pressure. Manchester United’s start to the 2024/25 season has been underwhelming, both domestically and in Europe. Following a humiliating 3-0 defeat to Tottenham just days before the Porto match, the Dutch manager’s position has become increasingly precarious [[❞]](https://www.footballtransfers.com/en/transfer-news/uk-premier-league/2024/10/arsenal-chelsea-man-utd-chido-obi-martin-vitor-reis-erik-ten-hag-sack-latest-footballtransfers-recap).
Rumors are swirling that United’s hierarchy is already lining up potential replacements, with England manager Gareth Southgate and former United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy reportedly among the candidates being considered [[❞]](https://www.footballtransfers.com/en/transfer-news/uk-premier-league/2024/10/arsenal-chelsea-man-utd-chido-obi-martin-vitor-reis-erik-ten-hag-sack-latest-footballtransfers-recap). The next few matches are seen as make-or-break for Ten Hag, with fans and players alike waiting to see whether the club’s leadership will act swiftly in response to mounting frustrations.
As United head into the critical weeks ahead, the question remains: Can Erik ten Hag turn things around, or will his tenure at Old Trafford be cut short as United’s inconsistent form threatens their season? For now, Harry Maguire’s late heroics have kept the club’s European hopes alive, but the storm clouds over Old Trafford continue to gather.