Erik ten Hag hailed for tactical masterstroke that changed game for resurgent Man Utd against Barcelona
ERIK TEN HAG has been hailed for pulling off a tactical masterstroke and guiding Manchester United to a thrilling comeback over Barcelona.
The Red Devils took another step towards the quadruple after coming from behind to beat Barcelona 2-1 and dump them out of the Europa League.
Robert Lewandowski silenced Old Trafford early by slotting home an early penalty.
And Barcelona continued to dominate possession throughout the first half as they went into the break in control.
However, the introduction of Antony in place of Wout Weghorst paid instant dividends as they took over.
Brazilian Fred rifled home an equaliser straight after the restart before Antony fired home the winner with just 18 minutes remaining.
But it was not just sheer luck – the Dutch manager is developing quite the knack of producing game-changing substitutions.
United have scored 19 goals by substitutes in all competitions this season, the most of any big five European league side this term.
Red Devils legend Peter Schmeichel told BBC Radio 5 Live: “In the second-half Erik ten Hag made the right changes and it was an instant result.”
One fan tweeted: “No manager is perfect with in-game management, but Ten Hag is pretty close.
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“Every time he makes a sub or tweaks his tactics mid-game, it’s like a bolt of lightning hitting the pitch – the influence is almost instantaneous.”
Another wrote: “What a result, Ten Hag’s subs working wonders again too.”
While another said: “Big win that. Brilliant second half. Ten Hag’s in game subs really are elite.”
Meanwhile, goalscorer Fred said: “”First half we didn’t play how we usually play. But in the second-half we were much better and scored early so we had a good talk at half-time with the coach and we change our mindset and came out very well.”