He had his chance to prove himself and see how he performs,I clearly gave him specific instructions to follow and he goes on the field and does the opposite😡, it’s quite annoying how you tell him what to do and how to do it and he still ignores it,this could be his last game for Manchester United cause I can’t work with a knucklehead like him anymore” – Manchester United coach sends strong message to a Manchester United Player after awful performance against Manchester City today.

“This Could Be His Last Game for Manchester United” – Erik ten Hag Criticizes Player After Dismal Derby Performance

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag made headlines with a fiery post-match critique following his team’s crushing defeat to Manchester City in the derby. The Dutchman didn’t mince words, voicing his frustration and disappointment with one player’s performance.

United’s poor showing left fans angry, but Ten Hag’s remarks have intensified the backlash. In a blunt statement, he expressed his dissatisfaction, saying:

“He had his chance to prove himself and see how he performs. I clearly gave him specific instructions to follow, and he goes on the field and does the opposite. It’s quite annoying how you tell him what to do and how to do it, and he still ignores it. This could be his last game for Manchester United because I can’t work with a knucklehead like him anymore.”

While Ten Hag didn’t name the player, speculation among fans and pundits is rampant. Many believe the comments targeted a midfielder or defender whose errors were glaring during the match. Failures in tracking back, defensive miscommunication, and poor tactical discipline were evident throughout the game.

One name circulating is Bruno Fernandes, accused of lacking leadership as captain during key moments. Others suspect it could be a defender like Victor Lindelöf, criticized for positioning and decision-making this season.

The fan reaction has been divisive, with social media ablaze. Some applaud Ten Hag’s tough stance, while others feel public criticism may harm team morale.

One fan wrote: “Finally, a manager with the guts to call out mediocrity. If they can’t follow instructions, they don’t deserve to wear the badge!”

Another argued: “Calling your players knuckleheads publicly? That’s not how you build a team. Ten Hag needs to be careful; he’s losing the dressing room.”

This isn’t Ten Hag’s first clash with his squad. Earlier this season, he criticized Jadon Sancho over training issues, leading to the winger’s extended absence from the first team. However, calling a player a “knucklehead” and hinting at their exit marks a new level of tension.

If Ten Hag follows through, a high-profile player could be benched or sold in January. This adds to the pressure on a team already facing criticism for underwhelming performances in the Premier League and Europe.

For Ten Hag, the stakes are enormous. While some back his no-nonsense approach, it risks alienating a squad struggling with cohesion. Without immediate improvement, questions about his own future at Old Trafford may grow louder.

As United deals with the fallout, all eyes will be on how the team and its manager respond. Will this serve as a wake-up call or deepen the cracks in a fragile dressing room? One thing is clear – the drama surrounding United is far from over.