Against Sheffield United, Manchester United were dominant in victory, with one Erik ten Hag decision proving hugely important.
It seems that goal fests are the norm right now for Manchester United with back-to-back six-goal thrillers.
That being said, Wednesday saw a far more dominant and convincing win in the end, as Erik ten Hag‘s side played a new brand of football which prioritised possession, as Ineos is said to have requested.
This as you’d logically think, saw United shine and finally an end to the winless run with a 4-2 victory which saw Bruno Fernandes shine above all else.
But in the game, there was one thing Ten Hag did differently to what he has done in recent weeks which might’ve also played a role in the win.
Erik ten Hag has learned from recent mistakes at Manchester United
After a few weeks in which United failed to win in the league, it was a delight to see three points achieved on Wednesday.
The win coincided with Ten Hag changing one decision he’s mistakingly taken over a few games in recent weeks.
During the recent 2-2 draw with Liverpool, Ten Hag took off Alejandro Garnacho while leading 2-1 in the game, which ultimately proved to be a mistake as Liverpool equalised late on.
Against Chelsea, he was also withdrawn while on a hattrick and as United led 3-2. After he departed the field though, Chelsea scored twice as United lost 4-3.
But against Sheffield, Ten Hag left Garnacho on for the entire 90 minutes which proved to be a successful decision considering United gained all three points.
It can’t be coincidental and likely has something to do with teams not fearing whoever replaces Garnacho, therefore, are more willing to commit men forward, and also the Argentine’s work rate and ball retention.
He’s coming off another impressive outing against Sheffield and continues to show why he’s one of the main men at Old Trafford these days, as Jason Wilcox watched on.
How did Alejandro Garnacho play vs Sheffield?
With Garnacho assisting Harry Maguire‘s goal against Sheffield, he’s brought his season tally to 14 goal contributions with nine goals and five assists.
Here are his stats from the game against the Blades.
A very decent performance, however despite impressing, there is frustration over his wastefulness in front of goal as he missed two big chances.
Going forward, next season, he needs to improve in front of goal as there have been countless games this season in which he’s squandered big chances.
Something to work on if he wants to reach the next level of his development.