Erik ten Hag has hit out at media criticism of Manchester United’s FA Cup semifinal win over Coventry City, calling it “embarrassing” and a “disgrace”.
The United team came under scrutiny despite advancing to the final after blowing away a 3-0 lead before a controversial VAR call bailed them out. Ten Hag was intensely scrutinised by the media as United once again failed to play a convincing brand of football.
Quizzed if he was able to understand the negative reaction towards him and the team, the Dutch manager said: “No, absolutely not.”
“One question was: “Is it embarrassing? No, the reaction from you [the media] was embarrassing,” said Ten Hag.
“Top football is about results, we made it to a final and we deserved it, not only by this game but also the other games. We lost control for 20 minutes, we also had bad luck. We were very lucky in the end, it is clear,” he added.
Comments are disgrace
The United gaffer once again made it clear that reaching a second cup final in as many years with man injury-ravaged United was not a mean feat.
“We made it to the final, it is a huge achievement. Twice in two years is magnificent. For me as a manager, four cup finals in four years. The comments are a disgrace.”
Ten Hag also reprimanded Antony who celebrated mockingly in front of the Coventry City players after United won on penalties.
“He was [provoked] and should not react like this,” Ten Hag said. “You have not seen the provocation, only the reaction, but he should not do it.
Despite making it to another cup final, Ten Hag’s playing philosophy remains a highly debated topic in the footballing community. United have looked poor in dominating matches, even against weak teams but individual brilliance has bailed the Dutch manager on countless instances this season.
The FA Cup remains the sole saving grace for United as they face Manchester City in the final next month. As for the Premier League, the record champions languish at the seventh spot in the points table and may not secure a Champions League spot for the next season. If Ten Hag fails to win the FA Cup, it might very well be the end of road for him at United.
(With inputs from agencies)