Erik ten Hag’s stewardship of Manchester United culminated impressively as he orchestrated a remarkable victory in the FA Cup final on Saturday. This victory not only brought him widespread praise but also underscored his acute managerial acumen through several pivotal decisions. As we dissect this triumph, it becomes imperative to examine the three strategic masterstrokes that elevated his team to success against formidable opposition.
Navigating Monumental Obstacles
Erik ten Hag entered the FA Cup final under a cloud of intense pressure and scrutiny. With Manchester United having endured a season of ups and downs, they faced a team many regarded as the pinnacle of global football. Beyond the tactical challenge, the match represented a significant psychological hurdle, with persistent speculation about ten Hag’s future at the club adding to the tension. The whispers suggested that his role might be at risk irrespective of the match’s outcome.
Despite these challenges, ten Hag displayed exceptional calm and resolve. If the rumors were to materialize and this was to be his final act, he ensured it would be a memorable one, clinching a prestigious trophy and potentially concluding his tenure on a high note.
The Strategic Selection of Sofyan Amrabat
Perhaps one of ten Hag’s most audacious decisions was to start Sofyan Amrabat over the more seasoned Casemiro, who was initially benched and later removed from the squad entirely. Opting for Amrabat might have seemed like a gamble, but it proved to be a tactical masterstroke. Amrabat excelled in midfield, where he played a pivotal role in United’s gameplay. Data from FotMob highlighted his contributions: completing 93% of his passes, engaging in eight defensive actions, making seven recoveries, and winning two duels—arguably his best performance in a United jersey.
Former United midfielder Paul Scholes compared Amrabat’s dominant midfield performance to that of a prime Gennaro Gattuso, underscoring the profound impact of ten Hag’s decision to trust the Moroccan international.
Opting for Marcus Rashford’s Flair
Another critical decision was to include Marcus Rashford in the starting lineup, despite his recent limited playtime. Rashford’s assignment to the left wing facilitated Alejandro Garnacho’s shift to the right, a tweak that proved strategically significant. Rashford’s presence on the left enabled a critical play that led to Kobbie Mainoo’s goal, with Garnacho and Bruno Fernandes playing key roles in the buildup. This decision not only demonstrated ten Hag’s in-depth understanding of his players’ strengths but also his willingness to deploy them in roles that maximize their effectiveness for the team’s strategy.
Refining the Tactical Framework
Throughout the season, ten Hag’s tactical choices had been a subject of debate. However, in the FA Cup final, his strategic excellence was on full display. He introduced a high-press, narrow formation that effectively contained Manchester City’s Rodri and frustrated their offensive efforts. This refined tactical approach, with Fernandes and McTominay orchestrating from the front before dropping back into midfield, was a testament to ten Hag’s ability to adapt and innovate under pressure.
A Celebratory Conclusion to a Challenging Season
The FA Cup win provided a jubilant conclusion to a season riddled with difficulties, including a lackluster Premier League run and disappointing outings in the Champions League and Carabao Cup. Overcoming top teams like Liverpool and Manchester City along the way, Manchester United’s journey in the FA Cup highlighted their resilience and determination to succeed against the odds.
In summary, Erik ten Hag’s tactical insights and decisive choices during the FA Cup final not only underscored his ability to inspire his team amidst immense pressure but also ensured that his achievements would be remembered as a hallmark of exceptional managerial prowess. Whether this marks an end or a new beginning at Manchester United, ten Hag’s legacy from this match will be celebrated for years to come.
