Erik ten Hag says United’s lack of character cost them against Sevilla

Erik ten Hag had to adapt his approach after initial teething problems at Old Trafford

Erik ten Hag says United’s lack of character cost them against Sevilla

Stephen Oladehinde 14:28 - 21.04.2023

Erik ten Hag, the head coach of Manchester United, has admitted that his team's performance against Sevilla in the Europa League was without character and passion.

After a 2-2 draw in the first leg at Old Trafford, the Red Devils travelled to Estadio Ramon on Thursday night for the second leg of their quarterfinal.

Sevilla won 3-0 at home thanks to goals from Youssef En-Nesyri (who scored a brace) and Loic Bade, who was by far the better team on the night.

Man United struggled to get going for the entirety of the game as Sevilla put on a dominant effort and had a goal disallowed in the first half for offside.

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Manchester United performance unacceptable says Ten Hag

Manchester United were humbled by Sevilla on Thursday night and Ten Hag has said that his team lacked character in the game which led to their elimination.

Speaking in his post-match conference, Ten Hag said, "I have to acknowledge, it's the truth (Sevilla had more fight). It's hard, it's tough, but it's the truth. It can't be. It's unacceptable," Ten Hag told reporters during his post-match press conference.

"I think we showed in the past we can bounce really quickly back. We did it many times this season, what we have to learn is to start games better, with more desire, pressing, more composure on the ball. When you get a setback, you have to deal with it, and carry on.

"Yes, it's the truth, that we have to be better. It's not about playing skills, it's about character. So be composed and have desire and passion. They had more willingness to win; it can't be. I think that's unacceptable.

Ten Hag says the players know what to do

When Man United plays Brighton & Hove Albion in the FA Cup semi-finals on Sunday afternoon, they will be hoping they can recover from the dismal loss.

In an interview with MUTV, the Dutchman said, "We know that [it is a huge game vs. Brighton] and that is what we just told [the players] in the dressing room.

"We know what to do and we need a huge step forward, higher standards, a better performance to beat Brighton, because that's a tough team. It must give energy, that's absolutely clear. But then we need a different performance as we did today."

Man United is currently in third place in the Premier League, six points ahead of Tottenham Hotspur in fifth place with one game remaining, and must finish in the top four to participate in the Champions League next season.