Manchester United fans are convinced that a key decision made by manager Erik ten Hag significantly impacted the result of their recent Premier League clash with Crystal Palace. The match, held at Selhurst Park, ended in a frustrating 0-0 draw for the Red Devils, as they missed out on the chance to secure back-to-back league victories.
Despite controlling possession for much of the game and creating several promising chances, United were unable to find the back of the net. Crystal Palace, under the guidance of Oliver Glasner, also threatened on occasion, with Eberechi Eze coming close to securing a win for the home side on two occasions.
In an attempt to change the game, Ten Hag made several key substitutions during the second half. He brought on Marcus Rashford, Manuel Ugarte, and Rasmus Højlund to replace Joshua Zirkzee, Christian Eriksen, and Amad Diallo. However, these changes did not sit well with many United fans, who quickly took to social media to express their dissatisfaction, particularly with the decision to substitute Zirkzee.
One frustrated fan wrote, “Taking off Zirkzee was a mistake… we lost our attacking link once he was subbed.” Another supporter echoed this sentiment, commenting, “Zirkzee shouldn’t have been taken off… even Amad was creating opportunities. Totally wrong substitutions.” Many fans felt that Zirkzee’s presence was vital to the team’s attacking flow and that his removal contributed to United’s inability to break through Crystal Palace’s defense.
Another fan voiced their frustration on Twitter, stating, “Zirkzee should’ve stayed on. The game shifted after his exit.” Similarly, another supporter added, “The subs didn’t work today. Creative players like Zirkzee, Amad, and Eriksen, who can move the ball quickly, were replaced by Rashford, Højlund, and Ugarte.” This view was shared by many fans who felt that United’s attack lost its cohesion and creativity after these substitutions were made.
One fan lamented, “By taking off Zirkzee and Amad, our entire attack was neutralized!” Another commented, “Zirkzee’s removal was a poor choice. He connects play and keeps attacks going without giving up possession—essential for breaking down a defensive setup.” Fans were clearly frustrated by what they saw as a tactical misstep that cost United a chance at victory.
Following the match, former Liverpool and Tottenham player Jamie Redknapp offered his analysis on Sky Sports, stating, “When you dominate that much, you have to make it count. The substitutes didn’t deliver, and United will be disappointed.” Redknapp’s comments echoed the feelings of many United fans, who believed that the substitutions disrupted the team’s momentum and contributed to the goalless draw.
As a result of the draw, Manchester United find themselves in 11th place in the Premier League standings, with just seven points from their first five matches. The result leaves both the team and its supporters feeling frustrated, as they had hoped to build on their previous success and climb higher in the table. Ten Hag will likely face further scrutiny over his substitution choices, especially as fans continue to question the tactical decisions made during the match.
