Manchester United manager, Erik ten Hag, did not hold back in his response to a question he deemed “pathetic” following his team’s defeat at home to Arsenal. The question in question was about the gap between the two teams if Manchester United had a fully fit squad.
Ten Hag’s immediate reaction was one of frustration. “That is pathetic,” he said. “We don’t have to answer this question in this moment. Because it isn’t. We have these problems and the problems have caused us an effect in results. But I don’t know where we would be if we had the players on board.”
The Dutchman went on to express his belief that having a fully fit squad would undoubtedly lead to better performances and more consistency in defense. “If we had all of the players on board, we will get more points and have more consistency in the backline,” he stated.
Ten Hag also highlighted the difficulties he has faced as a manager due to the numerous injuries his team has suffered. “Any manager can do better but also I am two years here and I have one time had a full group of players,” he explained. “You can’t progress a team in certain key areas with so many injuries. It’s like swimming with your hands on your back and you have to keep your head above the water level, that is what we try to do.”
Despite the setbacks, Ten Hag remained positive about Manchester United’s chances of success. He pointed out that the team is still in a cup final, which is a good achievement. However, he emphasized the importance of having fit players in order to progress as a team. He compared his team’s injury situation to that of their opponents, Arsenal, who had only one player not fully match-fit.
“I don’t like reactions but you have to always be there, you have to always be spot on when you are Man United,” Ten Hag stated. “But if it happens, you need a reaction and the players gave the reaction.”
In conclusion, Ten Hag’s frustration was evident in his response to the question about a fully fit squad. He emphasized the impact injuries have had on his team’s performance and highlighted the need for fit players to progress as a team. Despite the setbacks, he remained optimistic about Manchester United’s chances of success.
