Having heard what Erik ten Hag has done to him, I’m now sure we’re going to beat them with a wide margin”: Fc Twente boss says Erik ten Hag has made it easier for him to defeat Man United after suspending Man United’s best player this season

Manchester United enters their Europa League match against FC Twente as clear favorites, yet Twente, under the guidance of Joseph Oosting, is eager to compete vigorously. The Dutch club finished third in last season’s Eredivisie, surpassing Ajax, and is prepared to challenge United at Old Trafford.

Under Erik ten Hag, Manchester United has made notable strides this season, recording three consecutive clean sheets for the first time since January 2023. Goalkeeper Andre Onana has played a crucial role, particularly in a vital win over Crystal Palace. However, issues in the midfield persist, with opponents frequently exposing weaknesses that remain unresolved.

The recent acquisition of Manuel Ugarte from Paris Saint-Germain is expected to strengthen the midfield. With Casemiro likely returning after his standout performance in the Carabao Cup against Barnsley, there is optimism that United can reinforce their defense. Yet, if Twente approaches the game with confidence and precision, they may exploit any vulnerabilities.

Oosting is hopeful about his team’s prospects and shared this sentiment during a pre-match press conference: “I always believe there are chances. If we have the bravery to really play football, we can create opportunities. Especially on the counter, I think we can cause problems for Manchester United.” This statement reflects Twente’s strategy to take advantage of United’s susceptibility to counter-attacks, a tactic that has worked against even lower-tier Premier League sides.

While Twente may not have the attacking strength of Liverpool, they are ready to rise to the challenge. Although Manchester United has more individual talent, the Dutch side is determined to make their presence felt rather than merely serve as a hurdle in United’s Europa League ambitions.

Oosting recognized the difficulty of facing a club like Manchester United, likening them to giants such as Real Madrid and Barcelona. He noted the challenge of defeating such a renowned team but remains optimistic.

As Twente gears up for their encounter at Old Trafford, they intend to take an active approach in the match, aiming to defy expectations and craft a memorable contest. With a combination of determination and tactical insight, they are prepared to seize the moment and challenge the prevailing narrative.