Agitated Ten Hag criticizes English press: 'Your reaction was embarrassing'

United surrendered a 0-3 lead in the FA Cup semi-final on Sunday but ultimately outperformed Coventry City in the penalty shootout.

This drew significant criticism for United. Roy Keane said his former employer looked like a Championship club, and Jamie Carragher predicted that the FA Cup match could cost Ten Hag his job.

"Was it embarrassing? No, your reaction was embarrassing," Ten Hag said at the press conference ahead of the home game against Sheffield United. "In top football, it's all about results. We made it to the final. We deserved it not just based on this match, but also on the other matches we've played."

"We lost control for twenty minutes," Ten Hag continued. "We also had some bad luck. First with the 2-3, then with the 3-3. It's clear we were ultimately very lucky. We took the penalties well and reached the final, which is a huge achievement. Twice in two years, that's wonderful. For me as a manager, it's four cup finals in four years. The reactions are a disgrace."

Ten Hag also commented on the incident involving Antony. The Brazilian placed his hands behind his ears after scoring the winning penalty. "Did you see Harry Maguire's reaction? He was provoked, that's why he reacted that way," Ten Hag explained. "You didn't see the provocation, only the reaction. That doesn't mean he shouldn't have done that."

Ten Hag mentions doubts

On Wednesday, United continues the fight for a spot in European football. Last-place Sheffield United visits Old Trafford. It remains to be seen how Ten Hag's team will look. Alejandro Garnacho, Bruno Fernandes, Marcus Rashford, and Scott McTominay all came out of the cup match with Coventry not unscathed.

"That's why I substituted Garnacho during the match," Ten Hag explained. "But I think he should be able to make the game against Sheffield. The same goes for Bruno Fernandes." The issues with Scott McTominay and Marcus Rashford seem more serious. "Indeed, there are some doubts heading into tomorrow's match."

The match between Manchester United and Sheffield United starts at 9:00 PM.