What Erik ten Hag did before Man United’s opener during chaotic FA Cup win vs Coventry

Erik ten Hag seemed to have a part to play in Manchester United’s opening goal against Coventry City in their FA Cup semi-final clash.

United had a solid first half which saw Scott McTominay and Harry Maguire give them a comfortable two-goal lead.

McTominay grabbed the opener after 23 minutes. It was an impressive move that saw the Scotsman meet Diogo Dalot’s low cross at the back post to sweep home into an empty net.

Alejandro Garnacho also had a key role, with the Argentine winger playing a perfectly timed overlapping pass to Dalot just beforehand.

ESPN journalist Rob Dawson spotted a moment just before the move for the goal.

He said, “Ten Hag spoke to Dalot during the break in play. Ten seconds later, Dalot gets to the byline and crosses for McTominay to score. Dalot turns to point at Ten Hag during his celebrations.”

It seemed that the manager clearly instructed the full-back to continue to find the space high and wide, which paid off for the goal.

However, the manager’s decision to take both Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo off almost cost United the game.

From 3-0 up, the Reds conceded three goals to send the game to extra-time and were saved by a VAR decision to give offside for a Coventry goal in the 120th minute.

United won on penalties but will feel embarrassed by their display.