Here’s What Ten Hag Said After The 2-1 Loss To Nottingham Forest
After the recent 2-1 defeat to Nottingham Forest, Manchester United’s manager, Erik ten Hag, addressed the media with candid insights into the team’s performance, shedding light on the challenges they faced and outlining plans for improvement.
Analyzing Ten Hag’s Post-Match Comments Following the 2-1 Loss to Nottingham Forest
In response to questions about the team’s 14 defeats in 28 games, Ten Hag attributed the struggles to a series of injuries that have plagued the squad.
He expressed optimism, stating, “Because of injuries. We had some issues, but mainly injuries, that have held us back. In January, a lot of players will return.”
One notable issue highlighted by Ten Hag is the lack of consistency in the starting lineup due to injuries and illnesses.
He pointed out that the team hasn’t played in a row with the same lineup, and disruptions like the recent illness affecting Hojlund have contributed to the team’s inconsistency on the field.
According to Ten Hag, “We haven’t played in a row with the same team. Today again, we had to change because of the illness with Hojlund. It explains why we are inconsistent.”
Despite acknowledging the challenges, Ten Hag conveyed the dissatisfaction within the team, emphasizing the need for improvement.
He acknowledged the disappointing result against Nottingham Forest and stressed the importance of the players’ commitment to achieving better outcomes in upcoming matches.
As he put it, “The players are not happy with this. We have to do better.”
Reflecting on the team’s performance this season compared to the previous year, Ten Hag recognized a shift from over-performing to under-performing.
He acknowledged the responsibility to lead the process of stepping up, demonstrating his commitment to guiding the team through its current struggles.
In his words, “The result is disappointing” and “We were overperforming last year, but so far this season we are under-performing. We have to step up. I have to lead the process.“
Responding to inquiries about convincing INEOS, the club’s ownership, that he is the right person to lead the club forward, Ten Hag expressed confidence.
He emphasized that INEOS knows him well and understands that with a fully available squad, positive results can be achieved. As he stated, “They know me and know that when I have a squad that is available, results will be there.”
Looking ahead, Ten Hag expressed hope for the return of several injured players, highlighting the potential strengthening of both the starting lineup and the overall squad.
This optimistic outlook aligns with his strategy to address the team’s current challenges and elevate their performance.
In his words, “We hope that many players will return [from injury] and strengthen the team and the squad.”
Commenting on specific decisions during the match, such as substituting Kobbie Mainoo at halftime, Ten Hag defended the move, explaining that McTominay’s introduction brought energy and significantly improved the team’s second-half performance.
He also provided insights into the analysis of the goals conceded, attributing the first to factors unrelated to the midfield and the second to poor communication.
As he clarified, “McTominay brought energy; I think the second half was much better on our side, and the first goal, when you analyze it well, has nothing to do with the midfield… the second goal came from poor communication.”
Erik ten Hag’s post-match statements provide a comprehensive overview of the challenges faced by Manchester United and his plans for navigating the team through a demanding period.
The upcoming return of key players and a renewed commitment from the squad will likely be crucial elements in the team’s bid for improvement in the coming matches.
