Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has declared that he will step down from his role if his team loses to FC Porto this week in the UEFA Champions League group stage. Speaking ahead of the crucial match, Ten Hag boldly stated, “If we lose to Porto, I will resign. Trust me!”
The Dutch manager is under immense pressure after a string of disappointing results in the Premier League and Europe. With several fresh injuries complicating his lineup, Ten Hag faces a daunting task against the Portuguese giants.
Kobbie Mainoo has recovered from a recent injury scare and will make the trip to Portugal, but Mason Mount is ruled out after suffering a knock during the match against Tottenham. This leaves Ten Hag with tough decisions to make, particularly in midfield, where Casemiro and summer signing Manuel Ugarte have struggled to find their form in the opening weeks of the season.
Despite the pressure, Ten Hag remains defiant and confident in his team’s ability to turn things around. “I believe in this squad, and I believe we will rise to the challenge,” he said. “We have the quality to compete at the highest level, and I’m confident that the players will respond.”
Christian Eriksen, who started against FC Twente, may be called upon again to provide stability in the midfield, while Bruno Fernandes is set to feature, as his suspension for a red card against Tottenham only applies to domestic competitions. The attack will likely include Joshua Zirkzee and potentially Amad Diallo, who could replace either Alejandro Garnacho or Marcus Rashford after their underwhelming performances against Spurs.
As Ten Hag prepares for what could be his final match as United manager, the stakes couldn’t be higher. A loss to Porto would not only jeopardize United’s European campaign but also see the end of Ten Hag’s tenure at Old Trafford. However, he remains resolute, urging fans to trust in him and his vision for the club.
