Erik Ten Hag often spoke about his mission to bring the winning mentality back to Old Trafford. It’s taken him a few months, but the change is there for everyone to see. Marcus Rashford is the best example of how a shift in philosophy can impact results on the pitch. It’s less than a month since Ten Hag’s latest blast at his players, demanding they change their mentality. That came in the 3-2 defeat to Arsenal at the Emirates.”I told the players if you want to win trophies, titles, we have to change our mentality.” UEL: Atomic football at Camp Nou and two goals a piece – what a rematch lies ahead of us!The Dutch tactician’s made similar demands during the season, demanding a change in the players’ approach, attitude and spirit. Always looking to attack, to score and to win. It seems like a simple concept, but the tricky part is to give 20 men the belief they can do so. Ten Hag’s methods have transformed Rashford from an insecure boy to a goalscoring machine.Marcos Alonso gave Barca the lead just after the break, but Rashford produced a fantastic equaliser. After drawing level, United took just seven minutes to score again and take the lead. It was a remarkable turnaround from United, but they could not defend the lead and the hosts in the 75th minute.##NAJAVA_MECA_7031099##The scoreline seemed a fair reflection of the chances created, but after the game, Rashford said the draw felt like defeat. “It feels like a loss. I think we did well to get back into the game, the first half was probably in favour of them. We stayed calm, we stayed composed, we tried to make chances when we could. In the second half, we scored two goals in quick succession and we felt in control of the outcome, but they’re a good team with more players. I just think we were searching for the chances more second half, maybe because we were a goal behind. Overall, it’s a good performance from us. One to build on and improve on.”Disappointed to only get a draw. pic.twitter.com/8KmxHahibT— Marcus Rashford (@MarcusRashford) February 16, 2023 It’s going to be another night to remember when these teams meet at Old Trafford next Thursday for a place in the Europa League round of 16. Next season, we expect them to fight in the Champions League.
