A dramatic Europa League match between Manchester United and Twente FC at Old Trafford has sparked intense debate following post-match comments from Twente’s head coach. He praised United’s young star, Amad Diallo, while criticizing Erik Ten Hag for his substitution decision, which he claims cost United the match.
The game ended in a 1-1 draw, but the pivotal moment came in the 72nd minute when Ten Hag opted to substitute Diallo, shifting the momentum toward Twente.
**“Amad Was the Only Player I Feared”**
In the post-match press conference, the Twente coach lauded Diallo’s performance, calling him a constant threat. “I’ve never seen a player so determined to destroy us!” he said. “Amad Diallo was the only United player I feared; he brought terror every time he touched the ball. His energy was overwhelming, and he seemed ready to break through at any moment.”
Diallo, who has been making a name for himself in the Manchester United first team, caused numerous problems for Twente’s defense with his speed and technical skills, creating several chances and nearly scoring.
Twente’s defenders admitted they struggled against him. “He was a nightmare to play against,” said one. “Every time he got the ball, we had to retreat. We knew he could punish us.”
**The Turning Point: Ten Hag’s Substitution**
Despite Diallo’s standout performance, Ten Hag’s decision to substitute him with under 20 minutes remaining shocked fans and Twente’s coaching staff. “That was a mistake,” the Twente coach remarked. “When Amad left, it felt like a weight lifted off our shoulders. The pressure eased immediately.”
Twente quickly capitalized on Diallo’s absence, scoring the equalizer just minutes later, much to the disappointment of United supporters. They seized control of the game, taking advantage of the reduced threat on the right wing.
**That One Decision Changed Everything**
The Twente coach insisted that Ten Hag’s substitution was the match’s turning point. “That one decision changed everything. With Diallo on the field, we were constantly threatened. Once he was off, we had the space to attack and scored shortly after.”
He added, “If Ten Hag had kept him on, we might not have found a way back into the match. Amad was the only player who could have completely destroyed us.”
**Fan and Media Reactions**
The substitution has drawn criticism towards Ten Hag, with fans and pundits questioning his tactical decisions. Social media was abuzz with reactions from United supporters, many baffled by the choice to withdraw their most dangerous player.
One analyst tweeted, “Diallo was untouchable tonight. What was Ten Hag thinking? You don’t take off your most threatening player in a game like this.”
**Diallo’s Performance a Beacon of Hope**
Despite the controversy, Diallo’s performance has highlighted his potential for Manchester United. At just 21, his ability to take on defenders and create chances suggests he should feature more prominently in future lineups.
**Looking Forward**
As the dust settles on this Europa League clash, Erik Ten Hag faces mounting criticism regarding his decision-making. While Manchester United remains in a strong position to qualify from their group, the focus will be on how Ten Hag responds to the backlash.
For Twente, earning a point at Old Trafford is a significant achievement, and their coach clearly credited Ten Hag’s decision to substitute Diallo as a turning point. “It was a relief when Diallo left the pitch,” he concluded with a smile. “That relief gave us the opening we needed.”