Erik ten Hag has pinpointed the responsible party for Manchester United’s complete collapse against Galatasaray.
The Red Devils seemed on course for victory in their Champions League encounter with the Turkish giants last Wednesday, with goals from Alejandro Garnacho and Bruno Fernandes giving them a comfortable lead.
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Although Hakim Ziyech narrowed the gap with a free-kick, Scott McTominay quickly restored United’s two-goal advantage with a well-executed finish. However, what unfolded afterward may linger in the minds of supporters for a considerable period.
Andre Onana erred once again on a Ziyech free-kick, allowing the ball to slip through his grasp and find the back of the net. Kerem Akturkoglu then sealed the comeback.
The outcome necessitates that the Premier League side defeat Bayern Munich at Old Trafford in just under two weeks, while Galatasaray must secure at least a draw against FC Copenhagen for United to progress to the knockout rounds.
Sharing his post-match analysis with TNT Sports (via The Mirror), Ten Hag provided his evaluation of the team’s performance.
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He explained: “We were winning and then we’re losing it. We should have taken three points, that’s clear. We did this in other games.
“I was pleased with how we played but at the same time I have to criticise the team because the defending is not good enough. We are leading 3-1 and we cannot afford mistakes as it makes a difference.
“Every goal has its own story. Whether it’s a transition moment and we don’t block the middle or the second goal which is a free-kick and the third goal we are organised but have an overload. That cannot happen. We have to learn from that.
“I am very pleased because you see the style of this team which is pro-active, dynamic and brave. I was pleased with the performance because we created so many chances but at the same time we have to win this game.”
When asked who was to blame for his team’s implosion at 3-1 up, the Dutchman said: “It’s always me. I am responsible for this. We know we are in a project. We are making improvements so that’s very hopeful.
“We are going in the right direction so I know we will be successful in the long-term but if you want to stay in the Champions League you need to win these games.”
