United Manager Rejects Criticism, Emphasizes Team Building Process Amid Early Season Struggles
Erik ten Hag responded defiantly after his Manchester United side suffered a humbling 3-0 defeat to Liverpool at Old Trafford on Sunday. The Dutchman, clearly frustrated, insisted he is “not Harry Potter” and called for patience as his team navigates a challenging early season.
Liverpool secured a dominant victory thanks to two goals from Luis Diaz and a strike from Mohamed Salah. United, hampered by injuries and the unavailability of new signing Manuel Ugarte, still fielded three of their summer recruits. After the match, Ten Hag acknowledged the pain of the defeat but stressed the need to remain humble and learn from the experience.
“I don’t want to talk about positives today. There are some, but we have to take this defeat. It hurts for us, especially our fans,” Ten Hag said. “We have to be humble and give compliments to Liverpool, but we need to move on. It’s not like I’m Harry Potter; you have to acknowledge that.”
Ten Hag emphasized that this is only the third game of the season and reiterated his commitment to building a new team. “We have young players and players we can build into the season,” he explained. “We will be fine, but it’s clear we have to improve. By the end of the season, I am confident we will have a big chance to win another trophy.”
The manager also addressed the situation surrounding Manuel Ugarte, who has yet to make an appearance this season. Ten Hag noted that Ugarte is still building his fitness and will need time to integrate into the team.
In a passionate defense of his coaching methods, Ten Hag pointed out that Manchester United has been the second-most successful English club during his tenure, behind only Manchester City. United won the League Cup in the 2022/23 season and the FA Cup last season, which Ten Hag cited as evidence of his team’s capabilities. “After City, we won the most trophies. I’m sorry for you,” he told a journalist who questioned United’s recent Premier League performances.
Ten Hag also dismissed rumors that Casemiro left Old Trafford at halftime following his substitution after a difficult first half. “I met him after the game in the dressing room, so he didn’t leave the stadium at halftime,” Ten Hag clarified. He explained that the decision to substitute Casemiro was tactical, as United needed to take risks to attempt a comeback against a strong Liverpool side.
Despite the defeat, Ten Hag expressed confidence in his squad and assured that players like Casemiro, who has had a decorated career, will maintain their confidence and contribute positively as the season progresses.
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