Erik ten Hag has had his say on Manchester United’s performance against Wrexham, in which they sustained their first defeat of pre-season.
The Dutchman deployed a youthful starting line-up in all but one position – Jonny Evans took to the field in his usual role at centre-back after returning to the club on a short-term contract this summer.
It was the first of two games in two days for the Red Devils as now, they are preparing to face European giants Real Madrid in Houston. It’ll be another late/early one for UK-based Reds with kick-off scheduled for 1.30 am BST.
Against the National League winners, United went 2-0 down in the first half after Elliott Lee and Aaron Hayden found the back of the net, but Marc Jurado managed to halve the deficit ahead of halftime.
Dan Gore was then shown a red card after the interval – limiting United’s chances to overturn the League Two outfit. Sam Dalby extended Wrexham’s lead before the full-time whistle.
Ten Hag reacts
Reacting via MUTV, Ten Hag said: “We’re disappointed with ourselves. The way we played in the first half was a little bit erratic to the structure. We had some other objective that it was not [just] the result, but with young players, we have to learn from it and I’m sure they will do.
“This is what happens in top football, it definitely is [physical] in the Premier League, so our players have to get used to it. You don’t face this in youth football; this is men’s football and it is really good that they have this experience. It’s negative but you learn from it.
“It’s a learning moment and as Manchester United players, you have to deal with it. With the pressure from the crowd, it is good that we have this. You have to learn to take that and we will carry on.”
