“This players don’t deserve to player for any team in the world. How did Erik ten Hag start this horrible players? We have better replacements for God’s sake”-Man Utd fans fumes as they demand two players who must be dropped after horrible performance against Porto and tell Erik ten Hag who should replace them
Manchester United fans are expressing frustration after a disappointing defensive showing in their 3-3 draw with Porto during a Europa League match, with many calling for changes in the backline. United started the game on a high note, racing to a 2-0 lead within the first 20 minutes thanks to goals from Marcus Rashford and Rasmus Hojlund. However, their momentum was short-lived as Porto launched a spirited comeback.
Porto’s veteran defender Pepe got his team on the scoresheet before 20-year-old forward Samu Omorodion, formerly of Atletico Madrid, took center stage. Omorodion netted two goals, effectively turning the match in Porto’s favor and exposing United’s defensive vulnerabilities. His performance, particularly against United’s center-back duo of Lisandro Martinez and Matthijs de Ligt, was a major talking point. Martinez and De Ligt, who had previously established themselves as manager Erik ten Hag’s first-choice defenders, struggled to contain Omorodion’s pace and power throughout the game.
Their difficulties culminated in both players being substituted in the 77th minute when United was trailing 3-2. Harry Maguire and Jonny Evans were brought on to replace them, and it was Maguire who made a significant impact, scoring a crucial equalizer in stoppage time to salvage a point for his team. Despite this late reprieve, United fans have voiced their dissatisfaction with the defensive pairing of Martinez and De Ligt and are demanding changes, particularly with the impending return of Leny Yoro, a £52 million summer signing who has been sidelined due to injury.
One fan, clearly frustrated, commented, “We’ll see the same comedy of errors at Villa Park if De Ligt and Martinez start. They need to be dropped.” Another supporter echoed similar feelings, saying, “De Ligt shouldn’t even be in the lineup on Sunday. Martinez might not even deserve a spot.”
There is growing anticipation for the return of Yoro, with many fans believing that he should take Martinez or De Ligt’s place in the lineup. A third fan added, “We need Leny Yoro back now.” Another agreed, stating, “Yoro and Maguire should be the first-choice partnership until Martinez and De Ligt can prove themselves again.”
The situation is putting pressure on Erik ten Hag to reevaluate his defensive strategies before their upcoming Premier League fixture. Many believe that a shake-up in defense is necessary to avoid further lapses that could cost them in crucial games ahead. Fans are hoping the return of Yoro will bring stability to a backline that has shown signs of fragility in recent matches.