Erik Ten Hag has named the Man United player who will NOT be allowed to enter the dressing room after SHOCKING Draw Against Crystal Palace today The need to Leave the Club now 😱
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag did not shy away from criticizing Sky Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp, labeling his comments “unacceptable” after Redknapp implied that Marcus Rashford had been dropped from the starting lineup as a form of punishment. The controversy arose when Rashford was surprisingly benched during United’s scoreless draw with Crystal Palace, a decision that puzzled many due to his recent good form. Having started the first six games of the season and scored three goals in the previous two matches, Rashford’s absence was a major talking point.
Ten Hag clarified before the game that Rashford’s benching was a strategic decision based on squad rotation. He highlighted the importance of resting players due to the busy schedule and giving others a chance to perform, such as Alejandro Garnacho and Amad Diallo, who had shown strong performances in recent games. However, during Sky’s coverage, Redknapp suggested that Rashford’s exclusion was due to off-field issues, hinting at a possible punishment for indiscipline.
Redknapp remarked, “It looks like something’s gone wrong… clearly, something has happened.” Ten Hag responded firmly after the match, criticizing the baseless nature of Redknapp’s speculation. He stated in his post-match press conference, “The conjecture from some commentators is absurd,” and added, “You shouldn’t make such assumptions when you don’t know the facts.”
Ten Hag reiterated that Rashford’s absence was purely down to rotation, saying, “We have many games and more than 11 starters. It’s important to give everyone a chance to play.” He stressed that rotating the squad is essential for maintaining freshness and competitiveness throughout a packed season.
The United manager also expressed his satisfaction with Rashford’s form, noting that the forward had been performing well both offensively and defensively. “I’m very pleased with Marcus in every aspect—he’s scoring and playing well,” Ten Hag stated, making it clear that there were no issues with Rashford’s attitude or performances.
Ten Hag also took the opportunity to praise the contributions of other players, including Amad Diallo and Garnacho, both of whom had been performing well in recent matches. He emphasized the need to give these players opportunities to keep the squad balanced and performing at a high level.
This isn’t the first time Ten Hag has clashed with commentators over their assessment of Rashford. Just a few weeks earlier, he criticized Alan Shearer for what he called a “dumb” critique of the striker on BBC’s *Match of the Day.* The ongoing tension between Ten Hag and football pundits reflects the intense scrutiny managers face when handling key players like Rashford.
During the game itself, United dominated the first half, creating several scoring chances and hitting the crossbar twice. However, Crystal Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson made six vital saves to keep his team in the game. As the match wore on, Palace gained confidence and created better chances in the second half.
After the match, Ten Hag admitted that his team should have been more clinical in front of goal. “We played very well, but we weren’t sharp enough in the box to finish,” he said, acknowledging that United’s failure to convert their chances allowed Palace to stay in the game.
As the second half progressed, the contest became more balanced, with both teams having opportunities to secure a win. “The second half was more even, and both sides had chances,” Ten Hag reflected. United’s inability to capitalize on their dominance ultimately led to a frustrating draw, further fueling the debate surrounding Rashford’s benching.
Despite the ongoing discussions about his decision, Ten Hag remains confident that rotating the squad is crucial for the team’s long-term success. For him, effective player management is key, regardless of the noise from outside commentators.
