Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has set his sights on winning the FA Cup this season, acknowledging that it would be an overachievement for the team given their struggles. Despite reaching the final, United have not had the smoothest journey, coming under fire for their performance in the semi-final against Championship side Coventry City. With a 3-0 lead slipping away in the final 20 minutes, United secured their place in the final via a penalty shootout. Ten Hag, however, remains optimistic and bullish about his chances against Manchester City in the final, despite their recent league struggles. One of the major factors Ten Hag highlights is the team’s injury struggles, which have plagued them throughout the campaign. “I would say it’s over-performing with all the problems we have had,” said the Dutchman of the possibility of silverware. “Getting into the final is already a big achievement, but we are here for trophies. We have an opportunity to win a trophy and that is good. But we are not satisfied by being in the final, we want to win it and that is what we will go for and it’s our mentality.
That is why we are successful. That’s why I am successful over 10 years as a manager, I always bring out the maximum of each squad.” Ten Hag’s combative spirit was evident in the press room ahead of Wednesday’s Premier League clash with Sheffield United. He branded the media reaction to his side’s cup display as “embarrassing” and “a disgrace.” Many fans also expressed their dissatisfaction with the team’s performance, particularly the late collapse. However, Ten Hag remains upbeat, acknowledging the fans’ unhappiness while also emphasizing the importance of the FA Cup final. “We were not happy with it. I can see the fans are not happy with it as well, but they get fed by opinions. But all over, what I heard is that the fans are very happy we are again in the FA Cup final. Even for Manchester United, it is not business as usual, they were not so often in the FA Cup final and they were never in the FA Cup final two times in a row.” United’s injury woes continued on Sunday, with Alejandro Garnacho, Bruno Fernandes, Marcus Rashford, and Scott McTominay picking up issues. The latter two are doubtful for Wednesday’s match. Casemiro may be called upon to play in defense again, while United’s bench over the weekend featured five teenagers. Ten Hag remains confident, however, and is prepared to be creative with his team selection. “We will put a team out that is capable of winning the match, even if we have to be really creative,” said Ten Hag. One player who will be hoping for a start is 21-year-old Amad Diallo, who has made five substitute appearances over the past couple of months. “Amad deserves it, but don’t forget he had a long period in the season injured, so we rebuilt him and now he has had some opportunities and a real contribution,” said Ten Hag. “He played in a position that is not his best position. He started as a striker and then he had to play in the midfield, so he did well. We have a number of players in that area, there is big competition. But I am very happy with his performances and his progress, I see his qualities and his assets can really contribute to our game.” As Manchester United prepare for the FA Cup final against Manchester City, Ten Hag’s determination and optimism shine through. Despite the challenges they have faced, he believes in his team’s ability to perform at their best and secure a trophy.
Ten Hag Declares FA Cup Win an Overachievement for Manchester United
