Rasmus Hojlund’s response to Kobbie Mainoo’s substitution by Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag during their match against Burnley has drawn attention for its significance.
Both Mainoo and Hojlund were replaced on the 65th minute during the 1-1 draw at Old Trafford, with Scott McTominay and Amad Diallo coming on in their places.
- Why Cole Palmer argued with Chelsea coach after Aston Villa draw
- New video shows what Mo Salah & Klopp did after West Ham 2-2 Liverpool
- Man Utd’s budget for Jim Ratcliffe’s first summer transfer window has been leaked
The substitutions were met with boos from certain sections of United’s home crowd, indicating their desire to see the two players continue on the pitch.
It was a challenging game for Hojlund, who received more passes from goalkeeper Andre Onana than any other outfield United player.
Despite Hojlund’s optimism after Antony’s goal in the 79th minute, which put United ahead, Burnley managed to equalize through Zeki Amdouni’s penalty in the 87th minute, following a foul by Onana on the Swiss international.
The equalizer reflected the frustration felt at Old Trafford earlier when fans expressed anger at Ten Hag’s substitutions.
One fan captured Hojlund’s reaction upon learning about Mainoo’s substitution. It’s evident that the United player was surprised, perhaps due to the intensity of the boos or the fact that Mainoo was the player being replaced.
Hojlunds reaction to Mainoo being subbed ???? pic.twitter.com/WmGinhEHS3
— Morgan (@utdscope) April 28, 2024
Following the match, Ten Hag defended his team’s performance and highlighted their positive style of play. However, he admitted to feeling frustrated by United’s recurring issue of failing to maintain a lead this season.
He told BBC Sport: “We are one of the most dynamic and entertaining teams in the league at this moment. We are creating loads of chances by playing good football.
“It was unnecessary to lose control. We repaired this at half-time, and the second half was much better.
“It is not easy to get fourth when you’re so far behind. We needed to win. The past few weeks, we’ve got in winning positions and then given it away.
“I’m very frustrated. In phases of the game, we did very good, but in the end you have to take the three points.
“We gave it away and it’s very frustrating. We were in a winning position, and again we gave the game away.”
