After a nail-biting 2-1 victory over Brentford, Manchester United manager, Erik ten Hag, did not hold back in his criticism of his players. The team needed two stoppage-time goals from substitute Scott McTominay to avoid a third consecutive defeat at Old Trafford. Reflecting on the match, ten Hag emphasized that if the players could not handle the pressure, they should not be playing for Manchester United.
Ten Hag’s frustration was evident as he commented on his team’s performance in the first half. He described how the players were “eaten” by Brentford and urged them to be more determined in their approach. With experienced and high-quality players, ten Hag believed that they should take responsibility and deliver on the pitch. In his words, “in football, it is eat or get eaten.” The first half of the season had seen United fall prey to opponents who displayed more hunger, which ten Hag deemed unacceptable.
Despite the dramatic win over Brentford, ten Hag emphasized that improvements were necessary. He highlighted the importance of every player delivering their best performance throughout the entire match. Determination was the key demand and standard expected from the team. Ten Hag acknowledged that a lack of determination had resulted in poor performances and subsequent criticism. This must change for United to regain their position as a force to be reckoned with.
The victory over Brentford acted as a positive result for Manchester United as they headed into the international break. Following defeats to Crystal Palace and Galatasaray, the team needed a boost of confidence. They now have a two-week hiatus before their upcoming match against Sheffield United. Ten Hag encouraged his team to use McTominay’s late goals as a turning point. It was imperative for the players to realize the potential for improvement and turn the disappointing start to the season around.
Ten Hag expressed his disappointment at the team’s defensive lapses, conceding goals at crucial moments. He identified easy giveaways and a lack of formation as the sum-up of their season so far. Such mistakes get punished in top-level football, and United had too many talented players to be acting in this manner. The manager saw the victory over Brentford as an opportunity for a turning point, as well as a fresh start. The team needed to reach higher levels and improve their overall performance.
While Manchester United celebrated their victory, Brentford manager Thomas Frank described the defeat as “brutal.” His team came agonizingly close to securing their first win at Old Trafford since 1937. Frank recognized the positive aspects of his team’s first-half performance, praising their high press, counterattacks, and well-deserved lead. However, he acknowledged the stark reality of football, which can be unforgiving in moments like these.
Erik ten Hag’s strong criticism of his players after the win against Brentford reflected his desire for a more determined and consistent performance. Manchester United’s disappointing start to the season necessitated a change in mindset and approach from the team. The victory was seen as a potential turning point and an opportunity to reach higher levels. Thomas Frank, on the other hand, recognized the positives from his team’s performance but ultimately had to accept the brutal nature of football.
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