Erik ten Hag backs Maguire, and David de Gea despite the horror Europa exit

Maguire and De Gea were guilty of costly mistakes against Sevilla. Independent Photo Agency

EUROPA Erik ten Hag backs Maguire, and David de Gea despite the horror Europa exit

Moses King 07:00 - 21.04.2023

Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has given his support to team captain Harry Maguire and goalkeeper David de Gea as the pair were at fault in United's Europa exit.

Maguire's nightmares continue as he made another terrible blunder leading to Sevilla's opening goal in the second leg of the Europa League quarterfinals.

The skipper was guilty of scoring an own goal in the first leg against Sevilla and was, again, in the spotlight for recklessly losing possession in front of the goal.

United goalkeeper David de Gea made a risky pass to the captain, who lost his composure as three Sevilla players closed in.

Moroccan star Youssef En-Nesyri capitalised on the gift as Maguire fumbled and found the back of the net past David de Gea.

The goal gave United an uphill task as Sevilla led with an early goal.

Sevilla completed the rout at the Ramon Sanchez-Pijuan stadium, winning 3-0 as they contributed to their downfall. De Gea would hand Sevilla two goal-scoring chances in a similar manner.

United's proven partnership of Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane was unavailable due to injury.

Ivan Rakitic in action for Sevilla against Manchester United
Ivan Rakitic in action for Sevilla against Manchester United

Erik ten Hag backed David de Gea, saying he has no doubt in him for the long haul.

"David de Gea as a long-term goalkeeper? He is the one with the cleanest sheets in the Premier League."

"It's clear. When we make such mistakes, and it's difficult to win a football game".

"It's a problem, and we have to acknowledge it, but against Brighton, we have an opportunity to work on that. You have seen what I have seen. We were not composed or calm."

Maguire will rest in the clash against Brighton as he is suspended

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