“Immediately Erik Ten Hag changed him, we started losing possession. We could have won Crystal Palace today if wasn’t subbed off.”-United fans think ‘game completely changed’ after one Erik ten Hag decision in Crystal Palace draw.
Manchester United fans are convinced that a crucial decision by manager Erik ten Hag played a major role in the outcome of their recent clash with Crystal Palace. The Red Devils were held to a 0-0 draw at Selhurst Park on Saturday, missing the opportunity to claim consecutive Premier League victories.
Despite dominating possession and generating several scoring opportunities, United failed to break the deadlock. Crystal Palace also posed a threat, with Eberechi Eze coming close on two occasions to snatching a win for Oliver Glasner’s side.
In an effort to shake things up, Ten Hag made key substitutions in the second half, bringing on Marcus Rashford, Manuel Ugarte, and Rasmus Højlund for Joshua Zirkzee, Christian Eriksen, and Amad Diallo.
However, many United supporters were not pleased with the decision to substitute Zirkzee, taking to social media to express their frustration.
One fan wrote, “Taking off Zirkzee was a mistake… we lost our attacking link once he was subbed.” Another fan echoed, “Zirkzee shouldn’t have been taken off… even Amad was creating opportunities. Totally wrong substitutions.”
Another disgruntled supporter tweeted, “Zirkzee should’ve stayed on. The game shifted after his exit,” while another commented, “The subs didn’t work today. Creative players like Zirkzee, Amad, and Eriksen who can move the ball quickly were replaced by Rashford, Højlund, and Ugarte.”
Another fan lamented, “By taking off Zirkzee and Amad, our entire attack was neutralized!” Similarly, a fan remarked, “Zirkzee’s removal was a poor choice. He connects play and keeps attacks going without giving up possession—essential for breaking down a defensive setup.”
After the match, former Liverpool and Tottenham star Jamie Redknapp gave his opinion on Sky Sports, stating: “When you dominate that much, you have to make it count. The substitutes didn’t deliver, and United will be disappointed.”
The draw leaves Manchester United in 11th place in the Premier League standings, with just seven points from their first five matches.