Erik ten Hag's Bold Gamble Saves United's Season in FA Cup Thriller

As the clock ticked down with less than 20 minutes remaining, Erik ten Hag, Manchester United's manager, stood in his technical area, his hand resting on Antony's shoulder. The situation was dire. United were on the verge of another humiliating FA Cup defeat at Old Trafford, this time at the hands of their fierce rivals, Liverpool. The season appeared to be slipping away, and with it, ten Hag's hopes of keeping his job. Antony, the £85 million misfit and symbol of United's failure, had yet to make a significant impact with just one goal and no assists this season.

But when the final whistle blew, signalling the end of the match, everything changed in an instant. Amad Diallo, another one of ten Hag's substitutes, scored a last-gasp goal, igniting wild celebrations. However, in the midst of the chaos, Diallo's exuberance got the better of him, and he was shown a red card for removing his shirt in the heat of the moment. The mayhem that ensued captured the sheer madness of the occasion.

Among the 9,000 Liverpool fans in attendance, there was a stunned silence, disbelief etched across their faces. They would rationalise this defeat, considering it to be of lesser importance compared to their remaining priorities, having already secured the League Cup. Nevertheless, the loss would sting, especially considering the manner in which it occurred and the team that inflicted it. United may not have knocked Liverpool off their perch, but they had delivered a significant blow, causing a momentary wobble for the reigning champions.

Had United lost, their aspirations would have been reduced to a grim battle for fifth place, hoping to catch either Tottenham Hotspur or Aston Villa and secure a Champions League spot. Instead, they unexpectedly earned themselves a trip to Wembley for a highly winnable semi-final against Coventry City, a Championship side managed by Mark Robins. While it may be an exaggeration to claim that Robins had previously saved Sir Alex Ferguson back in 1990, his goal against Nottingham Forest in the third round of the same competition had set United on course to win their first trophy under the legendary manager. Antony's crucial finish to force extra-time and Diallo's subsequent match-winning goal should not be underestimated in terms of their impact.

However, it wasn't just those two players who contributed to United's dramatic turnaround. Marcus Rashford, amidst missed opportunities and a costly mistake that led to Liverpool's equaliser, displayed remarkable resilience. He kept going, embodying a sudden spirit that seemed to ignite within the team.

The match served as a focal point for the ongoing debate surrounding ten Hag's future. Since Sir Jim Ratcliffe assumed control of United's football operations, the beleaguered manager had faced scrutiny due to the team's lack of identity. In a departure from his usual cautious approach, ten Hag finally embraced the Ferguson tradition of throwing on more attackers, unleashing an all-out assault. The handbrake was off, and the team took risks. "We went into the risk," ten Hag later admitted, a departure from his usual style.

As they chased the tie, ten Hag made further changes, including Diallo, Christian Eriksen, and even Harry Maguire, all of whom made a significant impact. The formation shifted from 4-2-3-1 to 3-2-4-1, with Maguire at the heart of defence and Diogo Dalot and Victor Lindelof on either side. Maguire even found himself playing as a centre-forward, with Lindelof overlapping Alejandro Garnacho, who grew increasingly influential as the match progressed. Bruno Fernandes, often criticised but showing immense courage, played like a captain, providing the leadership United desperately needed.

Ten Hag must seize this thrilling victory as a turning point. Although relieved to head into the international break on the back of such a stirring win, he may rue the missed opportunity to ride the wave of momentum. Nonetheless, he has saved himself from an immediate inquest.

United's chaotic approach may not serve as a template for the ideal style of play, but it could mark a shift in mentality and belief within the team. Often disjointed and lacking direction, United have also struggled with game management. Their defensive vulnerabilities were exposed as Liverpool overturned Scott McTominay's early goal and claimed the lead. However, wastefulness on Liverpool's part, coupled with goalkeeper Andre Onana's brilliance, prevented United from suffering a more significant defeat.

Fatigue forced Klopp to make changes, which ultimately weakened Liverpool's resolve. Antony's late equalising goal, followed by Rashford's composed finish in extra time, turned the game on its head. As Rashford celebrated with Diallo, the 21-year-old forward's first goal for United brought a sense of hope and redemption, just as Ten Hag and many had doubted his future at the club.

Only time will tell what this goal means for Ten Hag's tenure and whether it will be his Mark Robins moment. How ironic that Robins now stands in his way as the manager of Coventry City.

United's victory, though chaotic in its execution, could signal a shift in mentality and belief within the team. They have often appeared disjointed and dispirited, lacking a clear game plan. However, this win showcases a newfound resilience and a willingness to take risks.

While this extraordinary game alone may not be sufficient to save Ten Hag's job, it provides a glimmer of hope. The manager must capitalise on this triumph and use it as a catalyst for change. The international break offers a moment of reflection and an opportunity to build on the team's newfound momentum.

United's unorthodox approach may not serve as a blueprint for ideal football, but it has shown that they can overcome adversity and deliver when it matters most. With a renewed sense of belief and a taste of success, Ten Hag and his side must push forward, aiming to rectify their lack of consistency and establish a distinct identity on the pitch.

As the dust settles on this unforgettable FA Cup clash, the focus shifts to the future. Will Ten Hag seize this opportunity to transform United's fortunes? Only time will reveal the true impact of their remarkable comeback and whether it will be the catalyst for a revival or merely a fleeting moment of glory in an otherwise challenging season.