Man Utd boss Erik ten Hag explains shock Marcus Rashford half-time substitution in 3-3 draw with Porto

Erik ten Hag explained that the unexpected decision to substitute Marcus Rashford at halftime during Manchester United's 3-3 draw with Porto in the Europa League on Thursday was due to rotation.

Rashford was the standout player for United in the first half, netting the first goal for his team and then assisting Rasmus Hojlund as Ten Hag's squad quickly took control of the match, jumping ahead with a 2-0 advantage.

During an interview with Sky Sports News, former Wales striker Robert Earnshaw discussed Rashford's performance in the first half, stating, "Marcus Rashford has been outstanding."

Whenever he receives the ball on the left, he strikes fear into the hearts of the Porto players. He appears to be the most threatening player on the field for Manchester United.

Response to Marcus Rashford's replacement noted in Sky Sports' live commentary...

Ex-Wales forward Robert Earnshaw:

In the first half, the player who posed the greatest threat to Porto was Rashford.

"It must be due to an injury, as there's no other reason you would decide to make that change."

Oliver Yew from Sky Sports:

"Isn't it likely that Marcus Rashford is injured?"

"He was outstanding in the first half. By far, the top performer for Man Utd."

Nevertheless, United’s lead was cut short before halftime when Porto scored a goal thanks to Pepe, and Samu Omorodion leveled the score just before the break.

Rashford did not return for the second half and was substituted by Alejandro Garnacho, sparking rumors that he might have sustained an injury. However, following the match, Ten Hag clarified that the substitution was intentional and part of the strategy as they prepare for the upcoming Super Sunday match against Aston Villa, which will be broadcast live on Sky Sports.

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Sunday, October 6th at 1:00 PM for a 2:00 PM start.

"We need to make some changes," Ten Hag remarked.

"We didn't start Garnacho, but he had an excellent game on Sunday and has performed really well all season."

"We're moving fast with a quick game against Villa, and they've had an extra day to recuperate, plus we have to play away."

During the post-match press conference, Ten Hag remarked, "Absolutely, but (substitute Alejandro) Garnacho was, without a doubt, my standout player on Sunday and has been in many other matches as well."

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In my evaluation of the season so far, I believe he has provided us with a significant offensive presence by generating opportunities, making assists, and scoring goals.

"Garnacho will definitely be part of our game plan, and we have two excellent players on that flank."

When asked whether Rashford's involvement in Porto's first goal influenced his decision, Ten Hag replied, "As I mentioned, I need to review the footage again. I believe our defense on the left side was lacking tonight."

Marcus was involved in this situation as well, but what I'm trying to say is that it was related to Garnacho and not in any way a slight against Rashy.

Ten Hag acknowledges that Manchester United needs to enhance its defense.

Erik ten Hag acknowledges that Manchester United needs to improve and cannot afford to waste a 2-0 advantage.

"We had a strong beginning and managed to score two impressive goals, but then we started to lose our grip on the game. While our start was promising, the middle phase wasn't our best, yet we ended on a high note."

"It's a challenging venue, and after being down 3-2, we managed to pull off an equalizer, which really boosts our morale."

"It's clear that the team has a strong work ethic and determination, but we really need to focus on improving our defense in the midfield."

"We need to improve our ball control and strengthen our defense."

"Hold Off On Judging Man Utd Right Now"

Porto scored once more shortly after the second half began, thanks to Omorodion’s second goal in the match. Meanwhile, Manchester United’s situation worsened when their captain, Bruno Fernandes, was shown a red card for the second game in a row after receiving a second yellow for a high boot, leaving them with only ten players. It seemed like they were on their way to yet another painful loss.

Nonetheless, Ten Hag's team held firm to secure a draw when substitute Harry Maguire scored with a header from a corner kick in injury time.

Regardless of the outcome, United, still holding onto a place in the knockout play-off positions in 21st, have now gone four matches without a win after their second draw. This latest performance only intensifies the pressure on Ten Hag as they prepare for a challenging match against Aston Villa on Sunday.

When asked about his future, the Dutchman stood his ground and stated, "We will achieve our goals. Don’t evaluate us based on our current situation; assess us at the conclusion of the season."

"We're on a journey of growth and improvement. We've made it to the finals for two consecutive seasons, so just be patient and wait for what's to come."

"We need to enhance and advance our team. We will put in the effort, keep moving forward, and stay determined."

"There’s a strong sense of camaraderie between the staff and the team. The players are united and share a common goal. We have a positive mindset, but we need to improve certain aspects of our defense."

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Maguire Supports Ten Hag's Leadership

Since Ten Hag took charge, United have let in three or more goals in a match on 24 different occasions across all competitions, which is the highest number for any Premier League team during this time.

This marks the third occasion this season that they have allowed three goals in a single match.

Nonetheless, goal scorer Maguire expressed his support for Ten Hag, believing that his expertise will help guide United through this challenging period.

"I've been with this club for six years, so I understand how things operate here," Maguire stated.

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When a team is experiencing a tough time, the players feel the heat, but the manager feels it too.

"Ten Hag has ample experience; he has spent a significant amount of time in the sport and with this club, which gives me confidence that he knows how to handle the situation."

"It's an integral aspect of being involved with this club, whether you're playing or managing, and it's one of the perks that come with it."

Maguire: We must improve our defensive play.

Harry Maguire acknowledges that Manchester United must improve their defense after giving Porto the opportunity to come back from a 2-0 deficit and level the match at 3-3 in the Europa League.

The defender remarked, “Once you’re leading 2-0 on the road in a challenging venue like this, it’s important to strengthen your defense and maintain that stability.”

“We left ourselves exposed too often, allowing too many crosses into the penalty area, and they took advantage of that.”

"We performed really nicely with the ball during the first half; we simply need to improve our game when we don't have possession."

"It likely begins with confidence. When we take a 2-0 lead and then let in a goal, that belief among the players starts to fade, making it harder to feel like we can secure the victory."

"We need to stay mindful of this and concentrate on it. When we do give up a goal, it's essential that we come together, regroup, and unite as a team. This is an integral part of football, and it's something we must improve on."