BREAKING NEWS: “Having heard what Erik ten Hag has done to him, I’m now sure we’re going to beat them with a wide margin”: Fc Twente boss says Erik ten Hag has made it easier for him to defeat Man United after suspending Man United’s best player this season.
Manchester United enters their Europa League match against FC Twente as clear favorites, but the Dutch side, led by Joseph Oosting, is preparing for a tough contest. Twente, who finished third in last season’s Eredivisie, ahead of giants Ajax, are ready to challenge United at Old Trafford.
Under the guidance of Erik ten Hag, Manchester United has shown noticeable improvement this season, particularly in defense, with three consecutive clean sheets—a feat they hadn’t achieved since January 2023. Much of this defensive solidity is due to the impressive performances of goalkeeper Andre Onana, who was pivotal in their crucial win over Crystal Palace. Despite these gains, there remain concerns in United’s midfield, which has been a recurring vulnerability, frequently exploited by opposing teams.
The recent signing of Manuel Ugarte from Paris Saint-Germain is expected to bolster United’s midfield and add much-needed stability. Additionally, the return of Casemiro, who delivered a standout performance in the Carabao Cup victory over Barnsley, could further strengthen the team. However, if Twente plays with confidence and sharpness, they may be able to exploit any remaining weaknesses in United’s defensive setup.
Twente manager Joseph Oosting expressed optimism about his team’s chances in a pre-match press conference, stating, “There are always opportunities. If we have the courage to play our game, we can create chances. I believe on the counter-attack, we can cause Manchester United problems.” Oosting’s strategy revolves around exploiting United’s vulnerabilities on the break, a tactic that has troubled the Red Devils in previous matches, even against lower-ranked Premier League teams.
While Twente may not possess the same attacking firepower as Liverpool, they are determined to rise to the occasion. Although Manchester United has the advantage in terms of individual talent, Twente is not content with being a mere obstacle in United’s Europa League campaign. They are eager to leave their mark and demonstrate they are capable of more than just defending against the English giants.
Oosting also acknowledged the challenge of facing a club of United’s stature, comparing them to football heavyweights like Real Madrid and Barcelona. He admitted that overcoming such a prestigious team is no small task, but he remains hopeful about his team’s chances.
As Twente prepares for their trip to Old Trafford, they aim to defy the odds and make the game a memorable contest. Armed with determination and tactical discipline, they are set to test Manchester United and potentially alter the expected narrative of the match.