Erik ten Hag Stands Up for Criticized Manchester United Attacker Amid Fan Disapproval Following Bournemouth Defeat

In his fifth league start of the season, the 28-year-old couldn’t guide the Red Devils to victory against Bournemouth, who secured a triumph at Old Trafford with goals from Dominic Solanke, Philip Billing, and Marcos Senesi.

Martial faced fan criticism and mocking when substituted in the 56th minute, with Rasmus Hojlund entering the game. Responding to the fan reaction, Ten Hag defended Martial, stating, “Two weeks ago against Everton, he played a very good game.

I don’t think it is fair, after a performance like this, to single out one player. We as a group failed together.”

Prior to the match, Ten Hag explained his lineup choices, stating, “Anthony Martial has the opportunity. He played very well against Everton, less so against Newcastle, but he has to prove it every day.”

Martial, in his ninth season at Man Utd, has seen a decline in importance since his prolific 17-goal Premier League campaign in 2019/20.

The defeat against Bournemouth prevented United from climbing to fifth in the Premier League, and they face a crucial Champions League clash with Bayern Munich before Bruno Fernandes’ suspension in the next league game.