Manchester United’s stunning FA Cup final win against rivals Manchester City left Sir Alex Ferguson, the club’s greatest gaffer, with just one word to describe the victory – “Fantastic.” This triumph marked Erik ten Hag’s second trophy in two seasons as the manager of Manchester United, a feat that may have been his last game in charge at Old Trafford. Ten Hag’s success comes after a six-year trophy drought for the Red Devils since Ferguson retired in 2013. Despite the win, Ten Hag’s future remains uncertain, and he made it clear that if the club no longer wants him, he will go elsewhere to win trophies. However, he expressed his desire to stay and build a winning team at Manchester United.
Following the FA Cup win, there were reports that Ten Hag was expecting to be sacked regardless of the result. However, the magnificent performance on the field and the scenes of celebration after the final whistle may have convinced the club’s owner, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, to stick with the manager. Ratcliffe, when asked about Ten Hag’s future, chose not to answer the question, leaving fans curious about what lies ahead.
The FA Cup victory showcased Manchester United’s attacking prowess, with goals from Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo. A defensive mix-up allowed Garnacho to tap into an empty net, while Mainoo finished off a slick attacking move to secure a 2-0 lead. Although Jeremy Doku scored for City in injury time, Manchester United held on to claim victory. The players celebrated by lifting Ten Hag in the air and urging him to lift the trophy towards the fans. The celebrations continued inside the dressing room, where the team reveled in their triumph.
Jonny Evans, a Manchester United player, publicly expressed his desire for Ten Hag to stay as the manager. He praised Ten Hag for his impact on his career and highlighted his tactical flexibility. Evans hopes that this victory can be the start of something significant under Ten Hag and emphasized their good relationship.
While the FA Cup win was a remarkable achievement for Ten Hag, it is essential to acknowledge that he has also faced some heavy defeats during his tenure as Manchester United manager. These defeats include a 7-0 loss to Liverpool, a 4-0 defeat against Crystal Palace, and a 4-0 thrashing by Brentford. These results serve as a reminder of the challenges Ten Hag has faced and the need for consistency in his managerial approach.
In conclusion, Manchester United’s FA Cup win under Erik ten Hag’s management has brought joy to the fans and raised hopes for the future. Despite facing uncertainty regarding his future, Ten Hag remains committed to his goal of winning trophies and building a successful team. The players’ support and the club’s owner’s potential decision to retain Ten Hag indicate a positive outlook for Manchester United’s future under his leadership.