UEFA Champions League: Ten Hag takes responsibility as Man United throw away two goal lead at Galatasaray

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag says he is responsible after his side’s chances of reaching the last in the UEFA Champions League were left hanging on a thread.

United had a two-goal lead over Galatasaray twice in Istanbul but settled for a 3-3 draw on Wednesday.

The result gives Galatasaray lifelines and leaves United bottom of Group A with their hopes of reaching the knockout phase in the balance before their final game at home to Bayern Munich on December 12, 2023.

The United goalkeeper Andre Onana was at fault for two of Galatasary goals in Istanbul.

The Cameroonian goalkeeper fumbled two free-kicks from Hakim Ziyech, allowing Galatasaray back into the game.

Onana was seen flinging his gloves to the ground in frustration after the final whistle.

Erik speaking after the game said, “It’s not about an individual. It’s always about the team.”

“I am responsible for this,” added Ten Hag. “We know we are in a project. We are making improvements, so that’s very hopeful.

“We are going in the right direction so I know we will be successful in the long-term, but if you want to stay in the Champions League you need to win these games.

“We were winning and then we’re losing it. We should have taken three points, that’s clear. We did this in other games. I was pleased with how we played but at the same time, I have to criticise the team because the defending was not good enough.

“We are leading 3-1 and we cannot afford mistakes as it makes a difference.”

United will need to beat group winners Bayern Munich at home in their last match and hope that the game between Copenhagen and Galatasaray ends as a draw in the Danish capital in order to reach the knockout stages of the competition.

Story By: Princeton Wiredu