Erik ten Hag explains why Hannibal Mejbri didn’t play for Man United vs Crystal Palace

Hannibal Mejbri was left on the bench for Manchester United’s clash against Crystal Palace in the Premier League on Saturday afternoon as The Reds lost 1-0.

The young midfielder started the last two games, including the Carabao Cup victory against the Eagles, with both games ending in victory for United.

He has been one of the standout performers, with his energy in the engine room giving Erik ten Hag’s side a boost after a slow start to the campaign.

However, in this Premier League encounter, he was demoted to the bench with Bruno Fernandes, Mason Mount and Casemiro starting in the middle.

Ten Hag explained that this was down to the difficulties of playing three games in a row with such a playstyle, as well as the fact that Hannibal has not been playing much football beforehand.

“Three games in a row when you don’t play often is not so easy, especially when one of your skills is your energy, and that is what he brought in the last two games,” explained Ten Hag on MUTV.

The manager added: “Offensive, defensive – he made a lot of runs, he did brilliant. I am very happy with his performances and his contributions to the team.”

However, Hannibal was not even brought on whilst United trailed 1-0 from early on in the game. Ultimately, it was a decision that Ten Hag could rue after United lost yet another league fixture, with the midfield being one of many weak points within the team.

They are up against Galatasaray in the Champions League next and Hannibal will be eyeing a place in the starting side after the team performance on the weekend.