Erik ten Hag has given his Manchester United players a chance to make amends for Sunday’s defeat at Liverpool by appointing a permanent squad for the match against Real Betis.
United suffered the worst competitive defeat in their history at Anfield, losing 7–0 as they found themselves at the end of the second half.
Ten Hag’s side may have been the more dangerous side in the first half, but after conceding a goal at half-time they capitulated in spectacular fashion and Liverpool rioted.
Thursday’s Europa League round of 16 opener gives United an opportunity to respond to this embarrassment, and Ten Hag has surprisingly resisted the urge to sack anyone involved in Sunday’s rout.
David de Gea, Bruno Fernandes, Casemiro and Luke Shaw were the targets of particularly scathing criticism for their performances against the Reds, although they all retained their seats.
Our starting lineup tonight…
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) March 9, 2023
Wout Weghorst also drew the ire of supporters after it was revealed that he had touched the “This is Anfield” sign in the tunnel before kick-off, a gesture usually associated with Liverpool players rather than their rivals.
The Dutchman claimed he was trying to piss off his international colleague Virgil van Dijk by preventing him from touching the sign. Weghorst also retained his seat.
Betis, coached by former Manchester City boss Manuel Pellegrini, are looking to add to United’s suffering.
However, the Andalusians have had injury problems in recent times as the mascots of Nabil Fekir and Sergio Canales were missing.
Former City goalkeeper Claudio Bravo was named between posts and Ayoze Pérez, on loan from Leicester City, was selected in attack along with 41-year-old Betis captain Joaquín.
