One Manchester United decision ‘stunned’ Fenerbahce bosses in Europa League clash

One decision from Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag ‘stunned’ Fenerbahce bosses during the Europa League clash on Thursday.

Manchester United’s Europa League campaign continued with a 1-1 draw as they were held by Fenerbahce.

Christian Eriksen opened the scoring for United in the first half, delivering a spectacular strike from outside the box—his fourth goal of the season—and sending Erik ten Hag’s side into the break with a one-goal lead.

However, Fenerbahce quickly answered in the second half, with Youssef En-Nesyri overpowering Victor Lindelöf to head home from close range, capitalising on an excellent cross from Allan Saint-Maximin.

Both teams pressed for a late winner with several tactical substitutions, but the hard-fought match concluded in a draw, with each side earning a point on a competitive evening in Istanbul.

How Ten Hag stunned Fenerbahce bosses

Ten Hag decided to start Noussair Mazraoui in the number 10 position in this game, something that raised eyebrows for many supporters.

However, it was no surprise for Jose Mourinho or the Turkish team. Instead, they were reportedly shocked at another decision from the Dutchman.

According to Laurie Whitwell of The Athletic, some in the Fenerbahce hierarchy were ‘stunned’ that Amad Diallo had not come on sooner last night.

It was further explained that they feared the worst when he made an immediate impact, with his first touch leading to a dangerous free-kick in the final minutes of the game.

Amad’s game-time makes no sense

After winning the club’s Player of the Month award in August, the Ivorian winger has been cast aside by Ten Hag. Antony coming on ahead of him made little sense while the manager cited training performances.

Amad has fell victim to playing the position unselfishly. He doesn’t quite demand the ball or force a shot like Alejandro Garnacho, but offers things that are quite useful unless your manager is under pressure.

Yet, Garnacho has now played four games in a row with knee strapping and it seems concerning after Kobbie Mainoo recently suffered injury through being overplayed.

Amad was not in world class form by any means, but his minimal game-time leaves some scratching their heads after Ten Hag has mentioned the importance of rotation so much.

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