"Mentality is always decisive"- Erik Ten Hag tells his players what to do to beat Barcelona and win trophies

Manchester United's manager Erik Ten Hag has explained how the team's mentality would be "decisive" in their second leg tie of their Europa League clash with Barcelona and also in lifting a trophy before the end of the season.

 

Erik Ten Hag claimed that his team will have to have the right attitude, even in difficult games, as this type of mentality will help make a difference when they find themselves in tough situations.

 

He made this known during his press conference on Wednesday afternoon, when he was quizzed about the team's chemistry and the factors he considers when deciding his starting lineup.

 

"Of course, mentality is always decisive, whether you win or lose." "If you win games but also if you want to win trophies, the mentality makes a difference," he explained.

 

"The element of belief, the winning attitude, the confidence that you have to show in every game and also in difficult situations, that makes a difference."

 

The 53-year-old missed several of his first-team players due to suspension and injuries during the first leg of the encounter with Barcelona. Several of his first team players are available for the Red Devils' decisive match on Thursday, including Scott McTominay, Harry Maguire, and Antony Santos. 

 

Scott McTominay made his return last Sunday as a substitute during the Red Devils' 3-0 win against Leicester City at Old Trafford in the Premier League. He was initially out due to a knock, and while team captain Harry Maguire missed the Leicester City match, Erik Ten Hag confirmed that Harry Maguire and Antony Santos are available for the Thursday game.

 

"Anthony Martial, he is on the [training] pitch; he is working hard. Not available for tomorrow, but Harry Maguire and Antony dos Santos, we have one training session left, but I am optimistic. "I think they can join the team," he stated.

 

He was quizzed on whether he's fazed over who starts or plays as more players are now available and injury-free.

 

"I like headaches and problems like this because you have options and we need them," he replied.

 

"We have many games coming up, especially games when you face Barcelona; you need weapons." So I’m really happy we have a strong squad tomorrow.