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September 20, 2024

Ten Hag: ‘Saturday Will Be Different’ – Primeira Liga

Last season, Manchester United faced a challenging match at Selhurst Park, where they suffered a heavy 4-0 defeat to Crystal Palace. This loss was a significant setback for the team, and the memory of that game still lingers as they prepare to return to South London this Saturday. Manager Erik Ten Hag has confidently dismissed the possibility of experiencing a similar result, emphasizing his belief in the team’s potential to perform better this time.

Currently, Crystal Palace is struggling, as they are still searching for their first win of the Premier League season. This ongoing challenge pressures their performance as they face a resurgent Manchester United. On the other hand, United is coming off a decisive 3-0 victory against Southampton, boosting their morale and confidence as they approach this upcoming fixture. The contrasting form of the two teams sets the stage for what could be an intriguing match.

Erik ten Hag has reassured Manchester United fans that they should not expect a repeat of last season’s disheartening 4-0 defeat at Selhurst Park when the Red Devils take on Crystal Palace again this Saturday. Reflecting on that match, which marked one of the lowest points in his tenure as manager, ten Hag expressed his determination to ensure that the team learns from past mistakes and comes prepared to perform at a higher level.

The manager’s commitment to improvement resonates with supporters eager to see a revitalized Manchester United squad. Ten Hag emphasized that the team has made significant strides regarding player fitness and tactical cohesion since that last encounter. He is confident that his players are ready to rise to the occasion and deliver a solid performance to instill a sense of pride and hope among the fans. With a renewed focus and determination, ten Hag aims to turn the page on last season’s defeat and create a positive atmosphere as they approach this crucial match.

Two stunning goals from Michael Olise and strikes from Jean-Philippe Mateta and Tyrick Mitchell marked one of Erik ten Hag’s most challenging moments as Manchester United manager.

His team was grappling with an injury crisis during their last visit to South London, while the Eagles were enjoying an impressive run of form under their new manager, Oliver Glasner.

However, Palace have yet to secure a win this season, and Ten Hag is adamant that last year’s result will not be repeated.

“No, definitely not,” he stated to The Guardian.

“It was clear.

“It was a 4-0 – totally deserved – but Saturday will be different.”

The Eagles currently sit in 16th place in the Premier League table, having earned two points, while United is in tenth with six points.

Ten Hag believes the conditions surrounding this trip to Selhurst Park are entirely different from those when the two teams last faced off in May.

“We know the circumstances, and you can’t compare this,” he remarked.

“We didn’t have a fit squad, we had even one or two players who were maybe up to 20% to play.

“But we had to play them.

“This time is totally different. We have a fit squad.

“We definitely have 18 players who are capable to go into this good challenge for us.”

Mason Mount and Rasmus Hojlund are both uncertain about the match. Still, Ten Hag emphasizes that he won’t rush them back now that he has a fully fit squad available.

“It’s not avoidable but when you have a full squad available then it’s easier to manage the load,” he continued.

“When you are in circumstances like last season and there was a need to play, we had to overload them.

“It’s very good news they are back on the pitch, they are back in gym training.

“We have to decide whether they are fit enough to start but it is very pleasing they are fit and back in the squad.

“We have many games in this block, so [are] very pleased.

“We hope we can integrate them in a very careful way.”

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