The Manchester Derby between City and United showcased a thrilling display of football, with Phil Foden’s stunning goals and Erling Haaland’s late contribution sealing the deal for City. However, amidst the excitement, questions arose about United’s tactical decisions, specifically the substitutions made by manager Erik ten Hag.
Notable among those expressing confusion was football legend Peter Schmeichel, who played for both Manchester clubs. Speaking on talkSPORT Breakfast, Schmeichel voiced his bewilderment over Ten Hag’s choices, particularly the decision to take off Kobbie Mainoo, Jonny Evans, and Marcus Rashford when a response was needed after City took the lead just before the hour mark.
Schmeichel’s critique extended to the perceived defensive posture adopted by United as the game progressed. He suggested that pushing the team higher up the pitch might have been a more assertive strategy.
The former goalkeeper, speaking live on air, commented, “I thought as the game progressed that the team fell in a little too deep. For my liking, I would have pushed them up a little bit.”
Schmeichel further questioned the substitutions, stating, “When you need to change the game and they have equalized and scored again, the substitutions that you make. You take all your pace out, you take your driving force out of midfield off? You take your best defender off? I don’t get that.”
The substitutions in question saw Sofyan Amrabat and Antony coming on for Mainoo and Rashford, respectively, while rookie defender Willy Kambwala replaced Evans.
In response to the criticism, Ten Hag explained his choices during the post-match press conference, clarifying that Mainoo, Evans, and Rashford were taken off due to exhaustion and injuries. He highlighted their efforts but stressed the necessity of making changes after 60 or 70 minutes.
Despite United’s 11th Premier League defeat, Ten Hag remains optimistic about the upcoming fixtures against Everton and Sheffield United. The focus now shifts to player recovery, with the coach expressing hope that Jonny Evans and Marcus Rashford will bounce back, contributing to United’s efforts to secure a place in the top six.
As the debate over tactical decisions continues, the Manchester United faithful awaits the return of key players and anticipates a resurgence in the crucial matches ahead. Ten Hag’s managerial choices will likely remain under scrutiny as the team strives to overcome setbacks and make a strong finish in the Premier League.
