During Manchester United’s friendly match against Borussia Dortmund, Erik ten Hag made a ruthless decision by substituting one of United’s young players after only 36 minutes of play.
Having suffered a 2-0 defeat in their previous match against Real Madrid, Manchester United aimed to conclude their pre-season tour of the United States with a victory over Dortmund.
Despite playing in front of a packed crowd at the Allegiant Stadium in Paradise, Nevada, it was Dortmund who emerged as 3-2 winners, courtesy of a brace from Donyell Malen and a goal from Youssoufa Moukoko.
In the match, Diogo Dalot and Antony scored for Manchester United at Old Trafford.
During the game, Erik ten Hag displayed his ruthlessness by substituting youngster Omari Forson after only 36 minutes of play.
Forson was involved in a contentious moment when attempting to tackle Dortmund forward Karim Adeyemi, but he seemingly kicked out at Julian Ryerson during the encounter.
As a result of the incident, both Ryerson and Adeyemi reacted, leading to a confrontation with Forson.
During the match, Forson’s actions escalated further as he swung an arm, resulting in both him and Karim Adeyemi receiving bookings from the referee.
Erik ten Hag, visibly furious with Forson’s conduct, made an immediate decision to substitute him, sending Antony onto the field in his place.
As Forson was being taken off, Ten Hag had a stern talk with the 19-year-old.
Clearly disappointed, Forson displayed visible distress as he left the pitch and received consolation from senior players like Christian Eriksen and Scott McTominay.
After the match, Ten Hag said: “When there is a VAR, he gets sent off.
“He played a good game and the opponent gets annoyed with him, so that is a learning curve but don’t take it into your own hands.”
He added: “You can’t be the judge, you have to play football, you have to beat your opponent, you have to net and that is the best way to react.”