Erik ten Hag lashed out at the media's "shameful" reaction to Manchester United's FA Cup semi-final win over Coventry City.
The Red Devils led 3-0 and were heading towards the final, but Championship play-off hopefuls Coventry City fought back in stunning style to level the game to a 3-3 draw. Towards the end of extra-time, the Sky Blues even slotted the ball into United's net for the fourth time, but VAR denied Victor Top's shot in the fiercest of offsides.
United eventually won on penalties, but most of the players celebrated in a low-key manner and congratulated the Coventry side on their heroic efforts. Much of the post-match discussion was about United's disastrous performance in the final 20 minutes of the game, and when Ten Hag spoke at his recent press conference, he was clearly furious by the media portrayal of his team.
When asked if he could understand the reaction, Ten Hag replied: "No, absolutely not. ”。 "You asked the question, 'Is this embarrassing?' and no, your reaction is embarrassing. Here's the review. Top football is about results, we got to the final, we deserved this game and the rest of the games. ”。
'We lost control for 20 minutes and we were unlucky, 3-2, 3-3. Obviously, we ended up very lucky. The penalty kick was very good and we got to the final, which is a huge achievement. Two times in two years, which is fantastic. As a coach, I have completed four cup finals in four years.
"These comments are so humiliating. Ten Hag went on to admit that Antony had been criticised for deliberately provoking Coventry's players and that his reaction to the victory had been inappropriate, but he was quick to point to the example set by former Manchester United captain Harry Maguire.
"He (Anthony) was provoked and should not have reacted as such. You don't see a provocation, only a reaction, but he shouldn't do it. ”。 "I've seen Harry Maguire too. We owe it to Coventry for the performance and we dominated the game at 70 minutes. The game has to end, but their return is very good. ”
Speculation is rife as to whether Ten Hag will remain in charge of Manchester United next season as they have already missed out on qualification for next season's Champions League. Outgoing Bayern Munich head coach Thomas Tuchel is the latest high-profile manager to be linked, but new minority owner INEOS is evaluating all of their options when it comes to restructuring football operations.