As Manchester United braces for a crucial Champions League Group A clash against Galatasaray, manager Erik ten Hag expresses confidence in his squad’s ability to handle a potentially hostile atmosphere. However, the Red Devils are navigating the challenging terrain with key players facing injury concerns and the absence of Marcus Rashford due to suspension.
Ten Hag acknowledges the significance of the upcoming match, stating, “We know we can [win away in Europe] and we are confident.” Reflecting on recent resilient performances in hostile environments, he adds, “The last games away from home in the league were also very hostile environments. We played very well. We were very calm and composed.”
A critical factor in United’s game plan is the improved form of goalkeeper Andre Onana. Despite initial nervy moments, Onana’s integration with the team and a more settled backline have contributed to his impressive performances. Leading the league in clean sheets with five and boasting a save success rate of 76.1%, Onana’s WhoScored rating of 6.96 is the highest among all goalkeepers in the Premier League.
However, the Red Devils will be without the services of Marcus Rashford, who is serving a one-game ban following a controversial sending-off in the 4-3 defeat to FC Copenhagen. Rashford’s absence adds to the team’s challenges, especially in a match where a loss would jeopardize their chances of advancing to the knockout stage.
In addition to Rashford’s suspension, Rasmus Hojlund, a significant goal-scorer with two goals against Galatasaray, is also uncertain for the match. Hojlund missed the Everton game due to a muscle strain but hopes to recover in time for the critical encounter.
The upcoming match in Istanbul holds significance as the Red Devils are aware that a loss would eliminate their chances of progressing to the knockout stage. Notably, this game occurs three decades after Manchester United’s memorable trip to Galatasaray, known for its intimidating atmosphere.
“This team also last year in Barcelona [in the Europa League did well], so we know how to deal with it, and I’m sure it will be a confident team on the pitch,” assured Ten Hag.
The 1993 encounter at Galatasaray marked Manchester United’s attempt to advance in the Champions League. Following a 3-3 draw in the first leg at Old Trafford, a goalless outcome in the return leg led to United’s elimination. The game is remembered for the intense and intimidating atmosphere created by Galatasaray fans, who famously greeted the players at the airport with a ‘Welcome to Hell’ sign.
Addressing a Turkish journalist’s inquiry about plans “to get out of hell” on Wednesday, Ten Hag emphasized the team’s focus on creating their own future. “It’s the past, so tomorrow it’s about the future, so we have to make it our game. It’s on us.”
As Manchester United seeks redemption for the 3-2 defeat suffered at the hands of Galatasaray earlier in the group stage, the team confronts a formidable opponent in the Turkish giants. The outcome of Wednesday’s match will significantly shape the trajectory of both teams in Group A.
