Manchester United’s Substitution Conundrum: Is Erik ten Hag’s Decision-Making Costing Them Games?
Manchester United’s 1-1 draw against FC Twente in the Europa League has once again raised questions about Erik ten Hag’s substitution strategy. The Red Devils took the lead through Christian Eriksen’s powerful effort, but a lacklustre second half and some questionable decisions on the bench ultimately cost them the win.
One of the most puzzling decisions came when Amad Diallo was brought off for Alejandro Garnacho, followed by the withdrawal of three of United’s best players on the night – Marcus Rashford, Christian Eriksen, and Joshua Zirkzee. The fans were left scratching their heads, with many questioning whether Ten Hag’s tactics were the right call.
"I get Eriksen made a mistake and the left side was losing control, but MAN… I love Bruno but he is having a stinker. Bruno and Eriksen OFF – Mount, Hojlund on for me," wrote one frustrated fan. Another added, "Ten Hag takes too long to make subs and it’s costing us games."
The stats back up these claims. According to data from Opta, United have made more substitutions in the Premier League this season than any other team. While this may be due to a desire to keep the opposition guessing, it also raises questions about the manager’s ability to adapt and make the right changes during a game.
So, what’s going on with Ten Hag’s substitutions? Is he too loyal to his starting XI, or is he simply unable to make the right decisions during a game? Whatever the reason, it’s clear that United’s fans are growing increasingly frustrated with the team’s inability to adapt and make the right changes.
As one fan succinctly put it, "Don’t think I have ever seen a manager get subs wrong as much as Ten Hag." The pressure is mounting on the Dutchman to get his substitutions right, and with United’s title hopes hanging in the balance, he needs to start making the right calls.
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