Manchester United return to action on Boxing Day in what promises to be a thrilling encounter. A showdown with Aston Villa awaits and given their recent results, the Red Devils have no room for a slip-up.
The English giants have won only one of their last five Premier League games, the most recent being their frustrating 2-0 loss away to West Ham, and were embarrassingly beaten 3-0 by Bournemouth in their last home fixture.
As a result, Rashford and Co. have dropped down to eighth in the table and could be leapfrogged by ninth-placed Brighton should the Red Devils fail to win and De Zerbi's men overcome Tottenham on Thursday.
Speaking ahead of this showdown, the Dutch tactician issued a rallying cry to his team, demanding both he and the players improve their standards ahead of this must-win game.
"I have to take responsibility and the players have to take responsibility. Every individual has to contribute 100 percent in that responsibility we have," the 53-year-old said, as per the Daily Mail.
"In every game, the players have to step up. Maybe in moments you expect from the seniors even more with young players around. But if you are good enough, you are also old enough.
"We have to do it together. It doesn't matter what age it is. We have to put out a team that has to win the game.
"Villa are in very good form so if you are creating chances, you have to take them and score otherwise you don't' win games. That is clear."
While Ten Hag has echoed a similar sentiment before, his words will come under greater scrutiny now that Jim Ratcliffe completed his partial takeover of Manchester United. While the British billionaire only secured a 25 percent stake in the club, he is set to take charge of the sporting department, which will play a significant role in the manager's future.
As of now, the Dutch tactician's job at Old Trafford is secure. However, should the club's horrible start to the season persist, then the Britishman's stance could easily change.
Unfortunately, Manchester United will be in for a rough time this Boxing Day. Aston Villa have been nothing short of spectacular this season, with Unai Emery's men sitting third in the table, level on points with second-placed Liverpool.
The Red Devils will face Nottingham Forest in the league and Wigan in the FA Cup following this tie. However, after that comes showdowns with Tottenham, Wolves, West Ham, and a rematch against Aston Villa.
