Erik ten Hag’s full reaction to Facundo Pellistri’s first Manchester United start

Manchester United are fond of giving youngsters plenty of opportunities – It’s in the club’s DNA.

As such, supporters were eager to see when Facundo Pellistri, acquired from Uruguay’s Club Atlético Peñarol during Ole Gunnar Solskjær’s managerial tenure, would get his first start in Manchester United‘s Red.

After a season with several exciting cameo appearances off the bench, Erik ten Hag noted that Facundo Pellistri “was good when he came in against Leeds and Betis in the home game.”

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As such, the manager handed the Uruguayan international his first start in Seville against Real Betis in the second leg of United’s round of 16 tie in the Europa League this season.

Pellistri has a real chance to impress with room for further starts due to the unfortunate extended injury picked up by Alejandro Garnacho in the 0-0 draw against Southampton during United’s prior Premier League game over the weekend.

While this was most certainly a tremendous learning opportunity for the youngster, Ten Hag explained on Thursday evening that: “It’s not about learning. When you play for Manchester United, you have to perform and he came in a little bit shy.”

These are fair words, and that’s a big reason why the manager seems to adore Garnacho, as the Argentinian winger is totally fearless when taking his fullback on.

However, Ten Hag commented that: “after, you could see he got the belief and he was really in the game. Really good actions, really good movement in behind and that was the mark before the game from a tactical approach. Defensively, he did his job really well and, all over, I think it was a good performance.”

While Garnacho not being available may have been a factor in Pellistri getting his first competitive start for United, Ten Hag makes it clear that “I think he deserved to come on. I see him progressing and getting stronger. He’s got belief and then you see his abilities.

“I’m very pleased with his performance. It was a step up for more but, once again, it is about him – what he can bring and what he can contribute to the team.”

Manchester United’s proud tradition of giving young players opportunities continues with their latest full debutant in Facundo Pellistri. Although initially nervy as youngsters can be, Pellistri eventually gained confidence, displayed good movement and defensive capabilities, and impressed his manager.

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Despite the absence of Alejandro Garnacho, Pellistri’s performance was impressive, and fans will be eager to see more from this young talent in the games to come.