- Manchester United faced a 3-0 loss against rival Liverpool in a pre-season friendly on Saturday
- Goals were scored by Fabio Carvalho, Curtis Jones, and Konstantinos Tsimikas
- Erik ten Hag stated that his team had numerous opportunities but failed to convert
After the match, Erik ten Hag lamented his team’s inability to capitalize on scoring opportunities as Manchester United fell 3-0 to Liverpool in a pre-season friendly held in the United States.
Liverpool concluded their American tour with three consecutive wins, comfortably defeating their rivals in South Carolina.
A crowd of 77,559 gathered at Williams-Brice Stadium, where Fabio Carvalho took advantage of defensive errors to net an early goal in the 10th minute.
Curtis Jones doubled the lead before half-time, and Konstantinos Tsimikas scored the final goal after the break.
Following the match, Ten Hag remarked: ‘We created numerous chances, but the difference is that Liverpool converted theirs. They performed well and took their opportunities, whereas we need to be more clinical.’
Erik ten Hag emphasizes the need for his team to be more clinical following the defeat against Liverpool.
Overall, fatigue played a role in their performance. With 12 or 13 days of preparation, it was a demanding match. The team may have lacked the freshness required to finish opportunities effectively.
Jadon Sancho was deployed up front for United, prompting questions about his suitability for the No. 9 role.
‘He plays there because we have no other options available. We’re exploring all possibilities while Rasmus is unavailable. Joshua Zirkzee has just joined us.’
‘He has started training; however, he needs time to adapt to English football and our style of play. Jadon can certainly play as a striker, as well as in wide positions; he could be a valuable option.’
Jadon Sancho took on a forward role for the Red Devils due to the absence of other attackers.
Ten Hag was also queried about Marcus Rashford’s capability as a central forward.
‘I believe Marcus has previously played in that role and can do so again; it’s certainly an option,’ he commented.
‘However, I’ve found him to be more effective when operating from the left, making cuts inside as he advances. Additionally, we have Bruno Fernandes who can also play as a striker.’
Regarding defense, Ten Hag mentioned: ‘We have solid options in the center-back position. Harry Maguire was substituted as a precaution, and Jonny Evans had to be replaced at half-time due to illness. Licha Martinez has returned well from the Copa America, where he played a complete tournament, so his form is excellent. We have strong choices for central defense.’
