In a post-game press conference following Manchester United’s game against Barcelona, manager Erik Ten Hag expressed disappointment at failing to win despite being up 2-1. The Dutchman praised his team’s effort but bemoaned their lack of clinical finishing, claiming that they should have scored at least four goals.
But it was his response to a question about his decision to play Werghost in the number 10 role, which paid off with a goal for the in-form Marcus Rashford, that drew our attention. When asked about his reasoning, Ten Hag provided a technical answer but also mentioned receiving a “good present,” which left us perplexed.
Meanwhile, new coach Xavi Hernandez in Barcelona was watching the interview and wondering what on earth Ten Hag was talking about. “Nice present?” he thought to himself. “Is this a birthday celebration?”
We must admit that we are perplexed as well. But we can’t help but admire Ten Hag’s bravado, and his willingness to take chances and try new things. This is a coach who isn’t afraid to change things up and try new things with his tactics. And that is precisely what Manchester United requires right now.
Xavi, on the other hand, appears to be taking a more cautious approach with Barcelona. Sure, the Blaugrana have been playing well under him, but they haven’t exactly set the world on fire. We can’t help but wonder if Xavi is being cautious out of fear of making a mistake.
That, however, is not Ten Hag’s style. He is not afraid to make mistakes because he understands that this is how you learn and grow. And we believe that is exactly what Manchester United requires right now: a coach who isn’t afraid to take risks and try new things.
So, sorry, Xavi, but we’re all Team Ten Hag. We admire his boldness, experimental approach, and willingness to take chances. And who knows, maybe one day he’ll explain to us what he means by “good present.”
