Kobbie Mainoo reveals Erik ten Hag’s secret Man United tactic that defeated Man City

Kobbie Mainoo has explained the secret tactic Erik ten Hag deployed as Manchester United defeated Manchester City in the FA Cup final on Saturday afternoon.

Manchester United showcased their best form of the season, defeating Manchester City in the 2024 FA Cup final under Erik ten Hag.

Alejandro Garnacho and Player of the Match Kobbie Mainoo both scored in the first half, giving United a solid lead. Despite a goal from Jeremy Doku, City couldn’t overcome United’s tactical discipline and strong defence.

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Ten Hag’s team demonstrated cohesive teamwork and strategic prowess, earning a well-deserved FA Cup victory.

Many thought that United would face a battering ahead of the game, considering Man City’s superior abilities this season, but Ten Hag’s men were fantastic.

They were the better team on the day, and Mainoo has explained the secret tactic that the Dutchman employed to ensure that City’s main threats were stifled in the first half.

“Tactically, just trying to stop everything going through the middle, to be honest,” Mainoo told ITV. “It’s so dangerous in the middle of the pitch.

“They’ve got so much quality there with De Bruyne and Foden and Rodri. So we were just trying to send everything wide and just block it and defend with our lives.”

The interviewer then pressed further, asking what the key was for the second half as Man City pressed to try and break down the two-goal lead United had secured at Wembley.

“Just not get carried away with ourselves, you know,” Mainoo replied. “We have to be very humble and respect them. They’re a great team. We know they can do a lot of danger to us, especially coming out into the second half. So we just have to keep our heads and keep together.”