Erik ten Hag’s Message to Garnacho Backfires in Man United’s Europa League Draw to Twente
Alejandro Garnacho’s introduction during Manchester United’s 1-1 draw with FC Twente in the Europa League came with much anticipation, as fans hoped the young winger could spark some life into a match that had been frustrating for the Red Devils. But what unfolded after his entrance proved to be more than just a moment of attacking flair – it raised questions about the approach and decisions from manager Erik ten Hag.
The encounter saw United surrender their first-half lead, a trend that has plagued them at various points this season. Christian Eriksen, who has been in superb form with three goals in four games, found the back of the net once again. However, his mistake in the second half allowed Twente to claw back with an equaliser, courtesy of Sam Lammers.
It was at this crucial moment that Garnacho came off the bench, with Erik ten Hag delivering a clear instruction – one that might not have aged well. According to pundit Owen Hargreaves, who was speaking on TNT Sports, the Dutchman was overheard repeatedly urging the Argentine to “defend, defend, defend.”
“We’re being a bit nosey here,” Hargreaves quipped, “we’re a bit too close to the bench. Garnacho, obviously he wants to come on and attack, but Ten Hag said to him, ‘defend, defend, defend.’ That’s what he demands from these players. They’re 1-0 up, and they want to create the attacking players, but they still have to defend too.”
Moments after this exchange, United’s defensive frailties were exposed, as Twente capitalised on a lapse in concentration to level the match. Garnacho, who had been tasked with defending initially, was soon allowed to push forward in search of a winner, but his attacking talents were stifled by a resilient Twente defence.
The young Argentine, who has been a breakout star this season with four goals and three assists in just seven games, is known for his electrifying runs and goal-scoring ability. Many fans and analysts were left wondering if Ten Hag’s insistence on defensive duties took away from the player’s natural attacking instincts at a critical moment in the game.
Ten Hag’s approach with Garnacho has undoubtedly brought the young winger to new heights. His performances this season have drawn comparisons to Cristiano Ronaldo, a player Garnacho has openly admired and looked to emulate. The manager’s demand for his players to defend from the front is a hallmark of his coaching philosophy, but in this instance, it backfired as Twente equalised almost immediately after Garnacho’s introduction.
As United pressed for a winner, Garnacho was finally unleashed in the attacking third, but Twente’s well-organised defence stood firm, and the Red Devils were forced to settle for a draw in their opening Europa League fixture.
While Erik ten Hag’s influence on Garnacho’s development is clear, this moment serves as a reminder that balance between attack and defence is delicate – and perhaps, on this night, Garnacho’s attacking prowess was stifled at the wrong time.
With Spurs up next at Old Trafford, Garnacho will have another opportunity to showcase his talent and add to his growing goal tally. Fans will hope that when he is called upon again, it will be for the Argentine to do what he does best: attack.
Erik ten Hag’s Message to Garnacho Backfires in Man United’s Europa League Draw to Twente