Erik ten Hag explains decision to sub Kobbie Mainoo as angry Man Utd fans call for change

The article discusses Manchester United’s recent match against Nottingham Forest and the controversial substitution of Kobbie Mainoo. Erik ten Hag, the manager, defended his decision to replace Mainoo with Scott McTominay, despite the team’s subsequent defensive collapse and defeat. The article also highlights the reaction from fans, who were critical of ten Hag’s decision and expressed frustration with the team’s performance. Overall, the article sheds light on the dissatisfaction among Manchester United supporters following the match.

The Substitution of Kobbie Mainoo

Erik ten Hag revealed why he subbed of Kobbie MainooCredit: Getty
The score was 0-0 when Mainoo was taken off
The score was 0-0 with the 18-year-old on the pitch with neither team able to create a significant breakthrough.
However, Ten Hag opted to sub the youngster off and replaced him with Scott McTominay.
Man Utd’s defence then fell apart as two passes dropped to the edge of the area – the position a defensive midfielder should be occupying to cut out danger – resulted in goals for the home side.

Ten Hag’s Justification

He doubled down on the sub by trying to justify McTominay’s introduction.
The Dutchman explained: “Scott [McTominay] brought energy, I think the second half was much better on our side.
“The first goal, when you analyse it well, has nothing to do with the midfield.”
“The second goal came from poor communication.”

Fans’ Reaction and Team’s Performance

Furious fans were unhappy at the explanation.
Taking to X, formerly known as Twitter, one fan said: “This man is just so lost.”
A second said: “Okay. Time to go then We’ve had enough.
“How can you call that tactical while bringing in McTominay that offers absolutely nothing.”
A third said: “Sack him on the spot.”
Another said: “This guy has lost it.”
A fifth added: “Tactical to show Fergi & Sir Dave how bad McTominay is..”
The 2-1 defeat, was overseen by legendary boss Sir Alex Ferguson and incoming director Sir Dave Brailsford.
Red Devils fans were also fuming at Anthony Elanga after he pointed to the Nottingham Forest badge when he was subbed off late on.

Conclusion

Man Utd’s horror year was compounded by stats revealing that the 21 defeats they have suffered in all competitions in 2023 is their worst since 1972, when they lost 25. Overall, the article highlights the dissatisfaction among Manchester United supporters following the match against Nottingham Forest.