Several Manchester United players attempted to skip training after their Premier League loss to Fulham, but their plea for a day off was denied, as per reports.
The team, who had previously won seven consecutive matches across all competitions, experienced a lackluster and subpar display at Old Trafford following their defeat to Fulham.
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United, missing key players like Rasmus Hojlund, found themselves trailing in the 65th minute as Calvin Bassey scored from close range.
Despite a late surge in energy, exemplified by Harry Maguire’s equalizer in the final minute of regular time, United suffered a devastating blow when Alex Iwobi netted the winner for the Cottagers in the 97th minute on the counter.
Following the loss, as reported by The Guardian, several United players expressed their desire for a day off to the coaching staff.
However, manager Erik ten Hag maintains a strict training regimen, requiring players to participate in post-match warm-downs and video analysis sessions at Carrington.
Amidst a packed schedule, with a trip to the City Ground looming on Wednesday for an FA Cup clash against Nottingham Forest, some players within United felt the need for a day’s rest.
The request, according to reports, was met with surprise, especially following a lackluster performance against Fulham, and considering the importance of recovery with such a quick turnaround to the next match.
Despite the players’ appeals, staff rejected the request, reminding them of their professional obligations. Interestingly, the players did not approach Ten Hag directly with their plea, likely due to his reputation as a strict disciplinarian.
It’s believed that the Dutch manager remains unaware of the request made by several members of his squad for a day off.
The request is believed to stem from previous concerns raised by senior players regarding the intensity of their training schedule.
In November, reports surfaced indicating that several players attributed their subpar performance this season to feeling overworked during pre-season and insufficient rest periods, especially during busier periods of the season.
Following their FA Cup fifth-round fixture against Forest at the City Ground on Wednesday, United face a daunting challenge with a crucial Manchester derby against fierce rivals City at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.
