Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag attributed his team’s 4-0 defeat at Crystal Palace on Monday night to errors made by their younger players.
The Red Devils endured another setback in their tumultuous season at Selhurst Park, with Ten Hag acknowledging that his side was thoroughly outplayed.
Michael Olise, a transfer target for United, scored twice for Palace, with Jean-Philippe Mateta and Tyrick Mitchell also finding the net. Olise’s opening goal highlighted United’s defensive frailties, prompting Ten Hag to criticize the team’s failure to adhere to their game plan.
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Speaking to the press after the match, Ten Hag expressed frustration with the ease at which Palace capitalized on United’s mistakes, particularly singling out the young players for not fulfilling their responsibilities.
“We had a plan, and it wasn’t executed,” Ten Hag remarked. “Professional players should prevent such easy goals, especially when there are five players around the ball during a throw-in. This type of error has occurred too often this season, and while we have young players, they must understand that they bear responsibility when playing in the first team.”
While United fielded youngsters like Kobbie Mainoo, Alejandro Garnacho, and Rasmus Hojlund, the majority of the starting lineup consisted of experienced players. However, even seasoned veterans like Casemiro, Christian Eriksen, and Jonny Evans underperformed.
The defeat has left United languishing in eighth place, trailing behind Chelsea due to a poor goal difference. With challenging fixtures against Arsenal, Newcastle, and Brighton remaining, United faces an uphill battle to salvage their season.