Erik ten Hag was tasked with re-motivating his players following Manchester United’s deflating Champions League exit.
The Red Devils oversaw a humiliating European campaign this term, claiming just four points from the 18 available across the group stage. Their rock-bottom finish then saw the prospect of a Europa League spot taken out of the question, meaning United will endure a significantly quieter second half to the campaign than some of their top-four rivals.
It could, of course, bode in United’s favour to have fewer fixtures, especially given the debilitating injury crisis that has plagued Old Trafford since the term began.
Crashing out of Europe’s elite competition at the earliest stage will undoubtedly leave a sour taste in the players’ mouths for some time though, as they’re all well aware that the competition is what supporters crave the most and for each of them, can provide a career highlight if they face stern competition or perform well on the illustrious stage.
Ten Hag looks to galvanise deflated Reds
Shortly after Bayern Munich’s 1-0 win in M16, which marked United’s final hammer blow in Group A, Ten Hag gathered his squad in training to issue a rallying cry on their targets for the second half of the season.
As per the Daily Mail’s United Confidential column, the Dutchman ‘spelt out the importance of targeting the highest possible finish in the league to secure a top-four place’.
A source added: “The message from Erik and his staff was that the league is still a great target. He said that things can change very quickly, and there are still a lot of games to go.”
The Reds tackle the third-round of the FA Cup against League One outfit Wigan Athletic on January 8 as they look to avenge June’s final defeat against Manchester City.
