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Erik ten Hag is urging Manchester United to maintain their composure in the high-pressure environment of Istanbul in order to avoid being eliminated from the Champions League by Galatasaray.
Losing would result in United being eliminated prior to their final group match. Ten Hag, who is expected to have Rasmus Hojlund and Antony return from injury, asserts that his team cannot risk losing control.
In the Champions League, United has received two red cards: Casemiro was sent off during their 3-2 defeat against Galatasaray at home, and Marcus Rashford received one during their 4-3 loss to FC Copenhagen. As a result, Rashford will be suspended for Wednesday’s match.
In both games, United was ahead before ultimately losing. Ten Hag expressed his desire to avoid a similar outcome, stating, “It’s important to remain composed and not let emotions take over. Keep control and don’t give the other team any advantage, including the referee. Avoid situations that they can capitalize on – it’s crucial to stay away from those moments.”
Hojlund and Antony were absent for Sunday’s victory against Everton, but they have since returned to training and are potential candidates for the upcoming match. Ten Hag confirmed their inclusion in the team’s roster. Unfortunately, United will have to play without a number of injured players, such as Casemiro, Christian Eriksen, Lisandro Martinez, and Jonny Evans.
Ten Hag confidently chose 18-year-old Kobbie Mainoo to play in the high-stakes game, following his impressive performance during his Premier League debut at Goodison Park. The coach expressed no concerns about the player’s young age, stating that if they have the skills, age is not a factor.
Ten Hag thinks that Manchester United has improved since their defeat against the Turkish champions in September.
He stated, “It is likely that it will be the same for Galatasaray, but I believe we have made improvements. Our progress is commendable as we are elevating our performance. We are now more consistent and achieving victories, showing definite progress since the first game.”
United has been defeated in their three most recent matches in Turkey and has never been victorious or able to score in three previous away games against Galatasaray. They were eliminated from the Champions League in 1993 after a scoreless draw at the Ali Sami Yen Stadium, but Ten Hag showed no concern about their unfavorable history.
He stated that it is imperative for us to create our own game and establish our own legacy.
Source: independent.co.uk
