Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has opened up after his side’s 2-1 Europa League win over Barcelona.
Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has revealed he told players to believe in themselves at half-time during their 2-1 win over Barcelona on Thursday night. The Red Devils battled their way to a huge win at Old Trafford courtesy of goals from Fred and Antony. Now, fans of the club are daring to dream again.
Manchester United fell behind against Barcelona, with Robert Lewandowski converting a penalty following a foul from Bruno Fernandes inside the box.
Man Utd boss Erik ten Hag was jubilant after Barcelona Europa League win (Image: GETTY)
And Ten Hag, speaking at his post-match press conference, has now revealed what he told players at half-time following that goal.
“I emphasised the belief,” said the 53-year-old, who has worked wonders since his appointment back in the summer.
“It was too flat first half. We had our spare man, Casemiro we didn’t use enough.
“Aaron Wan-Bissaka had a lot of space on the right side, we didn’t use enough.
“I think in the pressing we could be more brave. So that is what we emphasised.
“The second was to make the sub with Antony who brought more speed in the play and who brings belief on the pitch.”
In a separate interview with BT Sport, the Dutchman also admitted he was delighted with the ay United turned the game around.
Fred pulled the Red Devils level, with the Brazil international converting following a pass from Fernandes.
And Antony then struck a dramatic late winner to spark wild celebrations around the ground.
“Yes, we’ve had some good wins, Liverpool and Arsenal but I think this over two legs – Barcelona are La Liga leaders – to beat them it’s a big win,” he said.
“For a European Cup second leg I think it was flat on both sides, no chances.
Sir Alex Ferguson’s passionate reaction to Antony winner in Manchester United moments missed vs Barcelona
Casemiro got one over on old rivals Barcelona as the former Real Madrid ace helped Manchester United secure a 2-1 win at Old Trafford.
The Brazilian played a key role, producing two blocks at the end of the first half to bail out David de Gea after an errant pass.
Casemiro was a force to be reckoned with all game, creating the chance which put Bruno Fernandes through on goal early on.
He helped to disrupt Barcelona’s attempts to get on the ball, working in tandem with Brazilian teammate Fred to win the midfield battle.
Casemiro made 14 ball recoveries, more than any player on the pitch, and made 13 passes into the final third as he drove United on.
His big performance came on his birthday too, making it even more special. The midfielder shared an image with his family from earlier in the day, after the full time whistle.
He wrote: “I had a wonderful birthday!! Thanks to my family!! Thanks Old Trafford and @manchesterunited!! And thank you for all the birthday wishes!!”
The midfielder’s message drew responses from several of his Manchester United teammates, plus his former Brazil and Real Madrid colleague Marcelo.
Marcelo responded with eye-heart emojis, expressing his admiration for the Red Devils’ midfielder.
Real Madrid star hails Antony
Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images
A current Real Madrid player also reached out to congratulate match winner Antony, who scored the vital goal to make it 2-1.
Antony had come off the bench at half-time and earned praise after the game from former star Paul Scholes.
Jadon Sancho and Tyrell Malacia both responded to Antony’s Instagram post, along with Real Madrid ace Rodrygo Goes, who wrote “Let’s go”.
United’s performance clearly captured the attention, making it even more satisfying to see the club deliver with everybody watching on.
Along with Fred, Manchester United’s Brazilian stars were the difference against Barcelona, while Lisandro Martinez and Alejandro Garnacho added more South American grit to the side.
There are plenty more battles left to fight this season, and emerging victorious from this clash proves this squad are ready for whatever lies ahead.
Source: express.co.uk; unitedinfocus.com
