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Erik ten Hag explains why Wout Weghorst had ‘number 10’ role against Barcelona.
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has revealed that Wout Weghorst occupying a deeper ‘number 10’ position against Barcelona was a decision intended to make more space for others.
Weghorst was signed in last month after Cristiano Ronaldo left in November, and he has constantly led the line as a ‘number nine’.
Although the Dutchman hasn’t been a prolific goalscorer (one goal in eight appearances in all competitions), his presence and selfless manner has benefited other players.
But, there was some surprise on Thursday night as the first leg of the Europa League playoffs kicked off at Camp Nou.
Marcus Rashford was the central striker, with Jadon Sancho on the left, Bruno Fernandes shifted to the right, and Weghorst sitting behind Rashford in the centre.
Fans were left perplexed as to the logic that enabled United to earn a 2-2 draw to take to Old Trafford next week, with Ten Hag providing an explanation after the final whistle.
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“It’s not only about Wout, but he did well in that position,” the boss told BT Sport.
“It gives a lot of variation but I also want Jadon and Bruno getting in the half spaces and get them on the ball and also make runs from deep. With the full-backs joining in, we had a lot of chances and a lot of opportunities and we should have won this game.”
Ten Hag was generally happy with what he observed from his players, with the exception of a period in the first half. But, he did feel let down by the officials as Jules Kounde was let to continue playing despite fouling Rashford as the last player on the edge of the penalty area.
“I was a little bit disappointed that at half-time it was 0-0 because we should have scored and the opportunities they had, we created ourselves,” Ten Hag explained. “But I think it was a great game. Two attacking teams. I think it was a Champions League game, even more than that, so I really enjoyed the game. In the end…2-2 and we have to finish it in Old Trafford.
“Then we turn around when are down, and I also think the refereeing had a big influence in this game. I think it’s a clear foul on Rashford. You can discuss if it’s in or outside the box, but then it’s a red card because he was one-on-one with the goalkeeper. It’s a big influence, not only on this game but in this round, and referees can’t make such mistakes.”