Erik ten Hag reveals six Manchester United players who have ‘killer’ mentalities

Following his side’s impressive victory over Barcelona in the Europa League, Erik ten Hag was quick to praise the mentality of six players in particular.

Speaking in his post-match press conference, the Manchester United boss highlighted the belief of his team being crucial in their pursuit of success this season and in this fixture specifically.

“In the end, it was a great win because we had the belief to get that win,” he explained speaking after Manchester United’s 2-1 victory over Barcelona on Thursday evening.

In addition to emphasising United’s belief in the match, the Dutchman alluded to the resilience required to form this belief and produce in big matches.

“We got it by getting forward and, in the right moments, we strike. We have to act resilient. We have to be dynamite, to have the belief to win big games.

“In big games, it’s often about mentality and about being right in every moment of the game, to be ready for it because moments will change the game.”

The Manchester United boss then name-dropped six players that he believed had big personalities with the ability to implement the belief he had previously mentioned.

“I think we have some great personalities in the team like Rapha [Varane] and Licha Martinez, and, going forward, I said already Antony, he or Garnacho don’t fear anyone.”

“Bruno also, Casemiro of course, we have some players with great personalities and if you get setbacks, they move on and they carry on.”

Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez were both crucial in repelling pressure from Barcelona‘s attacking intensity, despite going behind to a Robert Lewandoski penalty in the first half.

The pair have formed a formidable partnership at the back for Manchester United this season, allowing the Reds to have a stable base from which to play out from the back and attack the opposition.

In addition, Antony and Garnacho were both instrumental in pressing Barcelona’s defence after their introductions in the second half, ensuring the Old Trafford ground continued to spur United on to a memorable victory.

Finally, it would be a struggle to find words of elation that haven’t already been used to describe both Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes.

Each player has been instrumental for the Reds this season in terms of controlling the tempo of matches and getting United onto the front foot.

Erik ten Hag will be hoping that his players draw on this type of mentality for their Carabao Cup final against Newcastle on Sunday evening, with a first taste of silverware for the Dutchman during his Manchester United career at stake.