Manchester United showed incredible character and fight as they came back twice in the game to win 4-2 against Aston Villa to progress to the round of 16 in the Carabao Cup. All six goals were scored in the second half as Erik ten Hag was very proud of the way that his team stood out in a very breathtaking clash. 

Most people believe this was revenge for the 3-1 defeat that Aston Villa handed to the Red Devils in the Premier League. It was Unai Emery’s first game as head coach and the Clarets were brilliant but this time the Red Devils were just too good. 

It was Ollie Watkins who opened the scoring for the Villains but his goal was canceled out by Anthony Martial’s strike. However, Villa regained hope when Diogo Dalot scored their own goal. But the joy was short-lived as Marcus Rashford also stepped up to restore parity. Later Bruno Fernandes who missed the last clash against Villa scored the third goal for United to hand the lead whereas Scott McTominay scored the fourth to seal the game beyond doubts. 

While there were many story arcs in this game of comeback, the most interesting one has to be of Alejandro Garnacho who came on as a substitute and produced a stunning pass to McTominay who scored the fourth goal for Manchester United. 

Garnacho has been the talk of the town, especially among United fans who think that the Argentinian forward is definitely one for the future and with his exciting runs, he is only drawing more crowd every single game day. Speaking about his talent, Ten Hag spoke with caution as he also wants the best for Garnacho. He showered praises for being courageous and leaving a mark on the game but he also pointed out areas he can improve. 

“I think it was good that when he came on that he showed a performance, that he had an impact on the game with two assists, some dribbles, some runs in behind,” said Ten Hag about the 18-year-old. 

The Dutch tactician highlighted the areas that he needs to improve but overall he admits that he has been very impressed with the Argentinian’s development as a youngster. 

“But [there were] also some things he has to improve. For instance, when you are going for a long ball don’t go into a header with Scott McTominay, go for the second ball. He has things to learn but it is quite obvious we are really happy with his development and performance tonight and he can contribute to this team,” Ten Hag explained. 

When asked if the 18-year-old can be a regular starter or not, Ten Hag focused a lot on his attitude towards the game and feels that if he keeps up this attitude then it is very much possible. 

“If he keeps this attitude, wants to improve every day, and he does the right thing in his lifestyle, yeah, then it is possible because you see he has the capabilities to contribute to attacking football, and also he can break open a really compact defending line,” the Dutch tactician concluded. 

Manchester United will travel to Craven Cottage to face Fulham on November 13 in the Premier League as the Red Devils will look to get closer to the top four in the league. Whereas Fulham has been very good this season and it won’t be a walk in the park for Erik ten Hag’s men.