In the aftermath of Manchester United’s impressive victory over Brentford, manager Erik ten Hag reflected on a pivotal moment that seemingly motivated his team: the controversial incident involving Matthijs de Ligt during their recent clash against Bayern Munich.
Ten Hag described the situation as an “injustice” that galvanized his players, suggesting that they used it as fuel for their performance against Brentford.
During the match against Bayern, De Ligt was involved in a contentious challenge that some felt warranted a penalty for Manchester United.
When the decision went against them, Ten Hag noted that it created a sense of injustice among his squad, particularly for players who felt the repercussions of such calls.
He emphasized that this feeling of being wronged can often ser
ve as a catalyst, pushing players to perform better and fight harder on the pitch.
Against Brentford, Ten Hag saw the tangible effects of this motivation. His side started strong, displaying a renewed sense of urgency and determination.
The players responded to the perceived injustice by channeling their frustrations into a high-energy performance, which ultimately resulted in a decisive win.
Ten Hag pointed out that the players carried a “dry blood” mentality—an emotional edge that reflects their desire to overcome setbacks and prove their resilience.
Throughout the match, United demonstrated a cohesive team effort, with both defensive solidity and attacking flair.
Ten Hag praised his players for their ability to rally together, highlighting the importance of unity in facing challenges.
He noted that such experiences can forge a stronger bond within the team, helping them to grow and develop resilience.
Ten Hag also took the opportunity to reinforce the need for consistency in performance. While he was pleased with the victory, he reminded his players that they must maintain this level of intensity and focus in future matches.
He emphasized that the “injustice” they felt should not just serve as a one-time motivator but as a reminder of their potential when they play with passion and determination.
Looking ahead, Ten Hag’s approach involves ensuring that the players harness this energy in a constructive way.
He wants his squad to learn from their frustrations and transform them into a driving force that propels them through the rigors of the season. By framing the Brentford win in the context of overcoming adversity, Ten Hag is laying the groundwork for a resilient mentality that could serve Manchester United well in their pursuit of success.
Ultimately, Ten Hag’s remarks highlight the psychological aspects of football, illustrating how emotions can significantly influence performance.
The manager’s keen understanding of his players’ mindset, coupled with his ability to channel their frustrations positively, positions Manchester United to build on their recent success as they aim for greater heights in the season ahead.
