Ten Hag: 'Every remaining match for Man Utd is a final'

Coach Erk ten Hag has hinted that he wants Man Utd to win every remaining game of the season, and wants his players to play like they are in a final.

Man Utd are unbeaten since the start of 2024, including four wins, to return to the top 6 of the Premier League. Ten Hag's team are still eight points behind fourth-placed Aston Villa, when the two teams meet in round 24.

"Since the beginning of January, I have told the players that from now on, every match is a final," the Dutch coach said at a press conference before the round. "So the upcoming match at Villa Park is also a final."

From left, Rasmus Hojlund, Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo celebrate a goal during Man Utd's win over West Ham at Old Trafford, Manchester, round 23 of the Premier League on February 4, 2024. Photo: AFP

In the last four games, Man Utd's young players have impressed. Striker Rasmus Hojlund has scored in all four games, while winger Alejandro Garnacho and midfielder Kobbie Mainoo have also scored twice. The three players are only 21, 20 and 19 years old respectively, so Ten Hag sees them as the future of the team.

"These three players want to pass to each other to score goals, and enjoy playing football together," he said. "Man Utd want to win many titles, so the young players also have to show their character, especially in important matches."

Man Utd beat Aston Villa 3-2 at Old Trafford on December 27, despite being two goals down. Unai Emery's team was second in the table after round 20, but has now dropped to fourth. Ten Hag believes that under Emery's leadership, Aston Villa players always know what to do to overcome difficulties. Therefore, the Dutch coach warned his players that Man Utd's chances of reaching the top 4 are increasingly remote if the team loses to Aston Villa.

The Red Devils will continue to be without left-back Tyrell Malacia, midfielder Mason Mount and striker Anthony Martial, who are both long-term injured. Right-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka is also injured, but the team's biggest problem is centre-back Lisandro Martinez, who has suffered a lateral ligament injury in his knee and will be out for at least eight weeks. However, Ten Hag believes the team still has many options to replace Martinez.

Experts believe that left-back Luke Shaw can move into the centre-back position, as he did for a while last season. However, Man Utd will be without a left winger, as Malacia has not yet returned. Ten Hag seems reluctant to use Raphael Varane or Harry Maguire in this position, as the two 31-year-old centre-backs are both right-footed. Jonny Evans is good with both feet, so he is likely to be used. "Man Utd's centre-backs have improved in their footwork, when they play the ball," he said.

Hoang An

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