Erik ten Hag thanks Pep Guardiola for giving Manchester United five reality checks after Manchester Derby

Erik ten Hag commended Manchester City for providing Manchester United with a “reality check” in Sunday’s 6-3 derby defeat and claimed his team will rise to the occasion.

Following the game, the manager chastised his players for their lack of bravery in a loss that halted a run of four consecutive league wins. Ten Hag stated before Thursday’s Europa League Group E encounter at Omonia Nicosia that United will learn from it.

“With Man City as a wake-up call, we realize we have to move up.” So, Pep and City, thank you for the lesson. “We’ll take it, and we’ll realize we need to do a lot better,” Ten Hag added.

When Manchester City fell behind 4-1 at the Etihad Stadium, Ten Hag substituted Anthony Martial for Marcus Rashford, leaving Cristiano Ronaldo on the bench. Ronaldo, who wanted to leave in the summer, has started one league game, but Ten Hag claims he will go in January.

“I don’t see the connection, that he’s not coming on when we’re down 4-0, 5-1, 6-1,” he remarked. “I don’t bring him on out of respect; it has nothing to do with the future, January, or next year.” I don’t view him as miserable; he’s pleased, he’s training well, and he’s having fun.”

Ten Hag was asked if Ronaldo, who could make his fourth appearance of the season in Cyprus, is happy to play less. “He’s upset that he didn’t play on Sunday, but that wasn’t the topic; the question was about how he’s doing on the training field, his mood when he’s around, and he’s pleased.” Of course he wants to play; he gets irritated when he doesn’t. We all know how competitive he is. He is unhappy when he is not playing.”

Ten Hag was also questioned if his respect for Ronaldo’s career prevented him from bringing the 37-year-old in when the team was losing badly, but Ten Hag responded the questioner already knew. “It’s apparent to me, maybe not to you, but I think you understand why.”

Ten Hag responded to criticism that his reasoning looked to regard Ronaldo as a particular situation, saying, “When you’re honest, you know there’s a difference.” There is no distinction for me.

“I made it plain, it’s always about how you live by the day; you line up the strongest team you have, but there are differences; no one in the team is the same.” I will treat everyone with respect, but they all come from various backgrounds, and each character is unique. I must treat people differently in order to get the most out of them, but there are general principles and ideals that apply to everyone.”

While United has three points and Nicosia has none after two matches, United is missing Harry Maguire, Raphael Varane, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, and Donny van de Beek due to injuries. – Protector