Manchester, UK, April 8, 2024 Despite a 2-2 draw against rivals Liverpool, Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has insisted that his team is “improving” with every game.
The match saw United stage a brilliant comeback in the second half, with goals from Bruno Fernandes and 18-year-old Kobbie Mainoo cancelling out Luis Diaz’s early strike for Liverpool. However, a late mistake from Aaron Wan-Bissaka allowed Mohamed Salah to convert a penalty and deny United a famous victory.
Although the Red Devils were largely outplayed by their opponents, who registered 28 shots on goal, Ten Hag remained upbeat about his team’s performance.
“Very mixed emotions,” the Dutchman told BBC MOTD. “On one side, I am disappointed that we have dropped seven points in one week after being in winning positions, but we have to blame ourselves for making stupid mistakes. On the other side, I am very proud. You see how we are improving, and the potential of this squad is amazing. I am proud.”
The draw will surely hurt United’s chances of finishing in the top four and securing a Champions League berth for next season, as they currently sit 11 points behind fourth-placed Tottenham Hotspur and fifth-placed Aston Villa.
Nevertheless, Ten Hag has urged his players to learn from their mistakes and build on the positives from the Liverpool clash.
“In decisive areas, we were losing battles, especially with young players; we were not confident to win them [duels],” the 53-year-old explained. “We encouraged them in the second half to do better, and they stepped up.”
United will look to get back to winning ways on Saturday when they travel to face Bournemouth in a crucial Premier League fixture.