Erik ten Hag has sharply criticized the public response to Manchester United’s recent FA Cup semi-final win against Coventry, labeling the feedback a “disgrace”. Despite leading 3-0 into the 71st minute, Manchester United allowed Coventry to mount a comeback, tying the game and pushing it to extra time. The match concluded with United winning 4-2 in a penalty shootout. Ahead of an upcoming game against Sheffield United, Ten Hag expressed his dissatisfaction with the criticism of the team’s performance.
United Manager Defends Team Amid Controversy
“No. Absolutely not,” responded the manager of United when asked if the situation was embarrassing. “The media has blown this out of proportion. What’s truly embarrassing is the reaction from the press. We’re here because of our results; we’ve earned our spot in the final not just with this game but throughout the tournament.
Despite losing control briefly and facing some bad luck with a deflected goal making it 3-2 and a dubious penalty tying the game at 3-3, our penalties were spot-on and led us to the final—a significant achievement. For me, reaching four cup finals in four years with United and Ajax is a testament to our determination and skill.
Post-match, Antony’s gesture of cupping his ears towards Coventry’s players after Rasmus Højlund’s decisive spot-kick was criticized. However, I believe he was merely responding to earlier provocations from the opposing team. Although it’s not ideal behavior, it’s important to see the whole context.
Harry Maguire’s sportsmanship, as he consoled the Coventry players, contrasts sharply with the provocations faced by Antony. These incidents highlight the emotional highs and lows of top-level football.
Looking ahead, United, currently seventh, faces an uphill battle in the Premier League, trailing significantly behind fourth-placed Aston Villa with only six games left. Our Champions League aspirations are dimming, and we are also dealing with new injury concerns.”
Manchester United Injury Updates and New Partnerships
“We encountered an issue with Alejandro Garnacho, which is why he was substituted during the match, but he should be okay,” explained the coach. “We need to evaluate Scott McTominay today – he’s quite doubtful. Marcus Rashford and Bruno Fernandes, who has a hand problem, are also questionable, although Bruno might be able to play.
“Our goal is to win every match – that epitomizes what United is all about. We aim to secure a spot in Europe and compete in the FA Cup final.”
Erik ten Hag recently met with Jason Wilcox, United’s newly appointed technical director, to discuss strategies. Wilcox, a former player for Blackburn, will be crucial in enhancing United’s transfer strategies this summer.
“We plan to work closely together to strengthen our team as we are currently a bit behind in our preparations,” Ten Hag remarked. “Although this week is busy, I am excited about what Jason, with his extensive experience, especially with youth at Southampton, brings to our partnership.”
