“It had to do with Garnacho and nothing against Rashy” : Erik ten Hag reveals the reason Marcus Rashford was dropped in the second half against Porto
Another week, another shambolic Manchester United performance, this time in Europe. Facing Liga Portugal heavyweights Porto, the Red Devils went into halftime with a 2-2 draw, although with solid showcases in attack by Rasmus Hojlund and especially Marcus Rashford. The Englishman has undoubtedly been ten Hag’s best player this season, and that is why his absence in the second half left fans confused.
The third dagger came quickly at the start of the second half courtesy of Samu Omorodion, as United conceded three goals in the span of around 20 minutes. Add captain Bruno Fernandes’ second straight red card in back-to-back games along with substitute Harry Maguire’s injury time header, and you could say this was just a regular Manchester United game in Europe at this point.
But the real surprise already came at the start of the second half when Alejandro Garnacho replaced the English winger at the left side, who was having a fantastic game to himself. Fans and analysts, who initially thought this was due to injury concerns, have been left puzzled with this decision by Erik ten Hag, who revealed what made him switch the 26-year-old so early.
“We have to rotate” : Erik ten Hag provides a simple explanation for his peculiar decision
In the Dutchman’s post-match press conference, the only reasoning he provided was that the Argentinian winger also had a great game on Sunday and that rotation is necessary.
“We have to rotate, Garnacho, we didn’t start him, but he had a great game not only Sunday but the whole season. I think in the season, as I assess it so far, he is bringing us so far the offensive threat by creating chances, assists, also scoring,” said ten Hag.
“Garnacho we also have to play as well and we have two very good players over that side.” the Dutchman added.
Erik ten Hag also confirmed that Rashford did not pick up any injury, and when asked if his substitution was because of his role leading up to Porto’s first goal, the Dutch manager denied to directly speak anything ill of the Englishman.
“As I say, I have to watch it back and I think over the left side definitely we didn’t defend well tonight. Marcus also played a part in this but, as I say, it had to do with Garnacho and nothing against Rashy.” said the 54-year-old.
Erik ten Hag has been heavily criticised on his tactics throughout the season, and with many claiming his job is hanging in the balance, the decision to drop Marcus Rashford after two goal contributions in the first half has just added more fuel to the fire.
The Red Devils will now travel away to Villa Park to face the in-form Aston Villa in the Premier League, who are coming fresh off a victory against German heavyweights Bayern Munich in the Champions League. In any case, being winless in four straight matches does not really help Erik ten Hag and co. with the added pressure.
