The match unfolded unexpectedly for both sets of supporters, as Manchester United found themselves trailing 1-0 in the 65th minute following Calvin Bassey’s goal.
However, hope was reignited for Erik ten Hag’s team when Harry Maguire scored a close-range goal in the 89th minute, suggesting the possibility of another remarkable comeback at Old Trafford.
Yet, in a dramatic twist, Alex Iwobi struck in the sixth minute of stoppage time, securing a crucial victory for Fulham, who had relentlessly tested Andre Onana’s goal with 17 shots throughout the game.
While Manchester United’s performance disappointed their fans, scrutiny was also directed at ten Hag for one of his substitutions.
On the 80th minute mark, ten Hag chose to replace midfielder Kobbie Mainoo with Amad Diallo in an attempt to inject more attacking prowess into United’s lineup.
While some supporters praised the Dutchman for giving Amad an opportunity, others questioned his choice of player to substitute, particularly as Casemiro had already been replaced due to injury.
Criticism surfaced on social media platforms like Twitter, with one United fan expressing bewilderment:
“He subbed out Mainoo for Amad. Bruno was right there…” Another fan echoed similar sentiments, stating, “I don’t understand this Eriksen sub; he could’ve just kept Mainoo on.”
The decision to substitute Mainoo, perceived as crucial in midfield, drew ire from supporters. One fan lamented, “Mainoo is the one holding the midfield, yet he was taken off…” Another supporter voiced frustration:
“Every time Mainoo gets subbed early, we lose.” Another fan even recalled Mainoo’s recent match-winning heroics, questioning the wisdom of his substitution: “Swear it was Mainoo who buried a 95th minute winner the other day. Not my choice to be subbed.”
However, amidst the criticism, some fans understood ten Hag’s rationale behind the substitution.
One supporter offered a balanced perspective, stating, “I struggle to find fault with the subs; Mainoo can’t play every minute.”
It’s important to note that ten Hag has previously acknowledged substituting Mainoo to manage his workload, though many fans clearly felt he should have remained on the pitch for the entire game against Fulham.
