If I don’t start Him,is still the same Man united fans that will come for my head, yesterday that I started Him you all can see how He disgraced the badge”, Erik Ten Hag says fans should not come for His head this season when He finally start benching their star figure after His embarrassing performance yesterday
Yesterday, Erik ten Hag emphasized that Manchester United fans should not blame him if he decides to bench one of their star players after a disappointing performance. He pointed out that the same fans who criticized him for not starting the player would now see the embarrassment brought upon the team.
Ten Hag remains confident that Marcus Rashford will regain his form once he starts scoring again, dismissing concerns about the player’s confidence. Last season, Rashford struggled significantly, falling from a 30-goal campaign to only eight goals. His difficulties continued in the Community Shield, where a late one-on-one opportunity against Ederson ended with the ball hitting the post, leaving Rashford visibly frustrated.
Despite these setbacks, Ten Hag reassured that Rashford’s confidence isn’t the issue and that the goals will come: “No, he doesn’t have a confidence problem. He was in good positions several times, and I’m pleased with that. He’ll keep finding those moments, and eventually, he’ll score. He’s experienced enough to handle this; once he gets one, more goals will follow.”
However, Rashford’s place in the starting lineup isn’t guaranteed. The arrival of Joshua Zirkzee adds competition, and with Jadon Sancho back from a loan spell, there’s further pressure on Rashford to perform. Although Rasmus Højlund secured the No.9 spot last season, his current injury will keep him sidelined for several months. Meanwhile, Alejandro Garnacho remains a promising talent, and Amad Diallo is back at Manchester, eager to make his mark.
Before the Community Shield match, Ten Hag had praised Rashford’s pre-season efforts, expressing optimism that the forward would return to his best form. “We know the reality. He’s working incredibly hard, very engaged, ambitious, and motivated to have a great season,” Ten Hag commented.
Reflecting on the previous season, where Manchester United managed to defeat Manchester City in the FA Cup final despite a disappointing eighth-place finish in the Premier League, Ten Hag remains confident in the team’s potential. He stressed the importance of having a fully fit squad to compete at the highest level. “We’ve put in the work and built a competitive team. It’s up to the players to be available, and the staff to support them, keep them fit, and ready. When everyone is fit, we have a very strong team,” Ten Hag concluded.