Erik ten Hag vowed on Tuesday that his struggling Manchester United players would continue to “think positive” as they prepare for a crucial Champions League match against Bayern Munich at Old Trafford.
Victory versus the German giants is a must for United if they are to avoid an early exit from Europe’s best club event after finishing bottom of Group A with just four points.
United must not only become the first team to defeat Bayern in a Champions League group game since September 2017, but they must also draw the other two games if they are to advance.
Following last week’s triumph over Chelsea, United manager Ten Hag attempted to explain that the club’s season has not reached crisis proportions.
Ten Hag’s expectations were dashed, however, when a 3-0 defeat at home to Bournemouth on Saturday brought the club’s disastrous season to a new low.
If United defeats Bayern, they will be guaranteed a place in the Europa League.
“What I do know is that I never think in a negative way.” “We think positively, so we know what to do,” he said at a press conference before the game on Monday.
“It’s all about winning if we want to stay in Europe.”
“We will prepare the team with that feeling and with that belief that we are able to do it and I think we have shown in the last weeks when we are on our best then we can do it.”
Despite a demoralising home defeat against Bournemouth, Ten Hag stated, “It’s our team that gives me hope.” We need consistency. Clear.
“But we also have a very good performance and highs, so if we get it when we are in the right spirit, then we can do it and beat any opponent.”
“The game against Chelsea, the game against Everton, and even the game against Galatasaray give me hope.”
“So, I know this team is capable of performing at a high level, and it’s not like we did it three months ago.” No, we did it last week, so I’m confident we can do it again.”
United lost a two-goal lead in a painful 3-3 draw at Galatasaray, and Ten Hag urged United fans to produce a hostile atmosphere on Tuesday.
“I think Old Trafford is not a nice place to come for an opponent, and we are aware of it,” he remarked. “It starts with us, but you hope that the fans are on board as well.”
“As long as I’m here, I have the impression we’re completely together.” The team and the fans have a very tight affinity.
Victor Lindelof was injured and missed the Bournemouth defeat, but he trained with the team on Monday, when Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford were out due to sickness.