The exciting Europa League match between Manchester United and Porto ended in a 3-3 draw, with Marcus Rashford making a big impact before being substituted by Ten Hag at halftime.
However, the Dutch manager faced backlash for his questionable choice to replace Rashford, which ultimately had negative consequences for United despite the hard work of the English forward.
Rashford opened the scoring in the seventh minute with a stunning solo effort, beating Diogo Costa with a precise shot.
Rasmus Hojlund doubled United’s lead, but Porto staged a comeback, with Pepe and Samu Omorodion scoring for the Portuguese side.
However, Harry Maguire rescued a point for United with a late header after Samu Omorodion’s brace, securing a 3-3 draw.
Meanwhile, United’s woes worsened with captain Bruno Fernandes receiving his second red card in five days, leaving him suspended for their next European match.
Erik Ten Hag’s bizarre reason for subbing Rashford
Marcus Rashford was replaced by Alejandro Garnacho at half-time, sparking fears that the England forward had picked up a knock.
However, the Dutch boss Erik Ten Hag has given his reason which is deemed ‘bizarre’ for sending off Rashford, who opened the score sheet for the Red Devils.
Manchester United boss Ten Hag now faces intense pressure following the Europa League results after losing 3-0 to Tottenham, putting his position under scrutiny.
Erik ten Hag revealed that Rashford’s substitution was due to rotation purposes, citing the packed schedule and the need for fresh players.
Erik Ten Hag explained: “We had to rotate. Garnacho, we didn’t start him, he had a great game not only on Sunday but the whole season. On Sunday we have another hard game, a good game, so we need players to be available, fit and fresh.”
”We have a quick turnaround to Villa. They have a day longer, we have an away game so we want fresh players on the pitch on Sunday.”
Despite a slow start to the season, Rashford has improved, scoring his fourth goal for United. His previous strikes came against Southampton in the Premier League and a brace against Barnsley in the Carabao Cup.
As the pressure mounts on Erik Ten Hag, Manchester United’s ability to bounce back from adversity will be tested.
In the Premier League, Erik Ten Hag’s side are currently in the below mid table with seven points after they won two matches, lost three and drew one.
Overall, Rashford’s substitution may have raised eyebrows, but the manager’s focus on rotation and freshness may prove pivotal in the season’s outcome.
What’s next for Marcus Rashford and Manchester United?
Manchester United’s struggle continues as they are winless in four matches but Marcus Rashford’s form offers a glimmer of hope.
Ten Hag’s tactical decisions will be put to a test in commanding a result against Unai Emery’s Aston Villa on Sunday, October 6.
The match will take place at Villa Park on Sunday, October 6 with kickoff set at 14:00 UK Time.
What’s your take on Erik Ten Hag’s decision and his alibi for substituting Marcus Rashford despite the England forward’s impressive form? Please, share your thoughts with us in the comments box below
