Manchester United Players Baffled With Erik Ten Hag’s Tactics for Derby: Report

Manchester United players were reportedly not happy with boss Erik Ten Hag’s tactics during their last Premier League fixture against derby rivals Manchester City on October 29. It was a home game for the Red Devils and a full-house Old Trafford saw the hosts suffering a 3-0 loss to City. Following the humiliating defeat, United players raised questions about some tactical decisions made by Ten Hag during the game, according to a report by the Sun. The outlet claimed that the footballers were left baffled by seeing the game plan and a few of them revealed their feelings in a dressing room inquest.

It was nothing short of a nightmare for Erik Ten Hag. The Dutch manager was forced to make some changes to the teamsheet to negotiate with Manchester City’s dominance during the second half. The Sun report said that Manchester United players could not find the answer to why centre-back Victor Lindelof was playing as a wing-back down the left flank. The Swedish defender was filling the vacant spot of Sergio Reguilon, who just warmed the bench during the crucial game.

Questions were also raised highlighting the position of Bruno Fernandes. The Portuguese midfielder was operating from wide while he likes to play in the No 10 role. This decision certainly had a huge impact on United’s attacking third as Fernandes was struggling to find the way for a successful pass. Ten Hag, however, subbed in natural wingers like Antony and Alejandro Garnacho in the second half. Both of them were not included in the playing eleven.

Mason Mount, who was tipped to be a regular in the United midfield this season, also spent the first half on the bench. The former Chelsea man replaced Sofyan Amrabat in the second half but failed to change the course of the game. The home fans were also heard booing Ten Hag after the United boss subbed off Rasmus Hojlund to accommodate Garnacho.

Manchester City appeared in a more devastating version after the first 45 minutes. Haaland converted a penalty in the 26th minute to give the visitors an early lead. He once again struck the net right after the second-half whistle, making it 2-0. Phil Foden put the final nail in United’s coffin in the 80th minute, with Haaland providing the assist.

This was Manchester United’s fifth defeat in this Premier League season. With 15 points in 10 games, Erik Ten Hag’s men now find themselves in the eighth spot in the points table.