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Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag insists he must be trusted regarding his decision to drop Marcus Rashford to the bench during United’s 0-0 draw against Crystal Palace. Despite praising Rashford’s recent form, Ten Hag opted to start Alejandro Garnacho and Amad Diallo instead, bringing Rashford on after an hour.
Pundit Jamie Redknapp hinted that something had occurred behind the scenes for such a decision, but Ten Hag dismissed this as “crazy” speculation. “I was just rotating the squad,” he said, adding, “You are not OK when you bring such speculation without knowing what’s going on.”
On The Rest is Football podcast, Gary Lineker and Alan Shearer also questioned the move. Responding to this criticism, Ten Hag said: “People are not entitled to bring speculation. If I give an explanation, they have to trust my words.”
Expanding Football Schedule Increases Injury Risk, Ten Hag Warns
The Dutch manager also voiced concerns over the packed football calendar, warning that injuries are becoming “unavoidable” due to the increased number of matches. The Europa League, like the Champions League, has expanded this season, adding more games to an already crowded schedule.
“For the top players, they are overloaded, and this is not good for football. It’s maybe good for commercial [purposes], but there is a limit,” Ten Hag commented.
United’s injury concerns continue, with left-back Luke Shaw unlikely to return before the international break in October. Shaw, sidelined with a calf injury since the Euro 2024 final, could possibly return shortly after the break.
