The match unfolded in a manner that neither team’s supporters anticipated, as Manchester United found themselves trailing 1-0 on the 65th minute due to Calvin Bassey’s goal.
However, hope was reignited for Erik ten Hag’s side when Harry Maguire netted a close-range goal on the 89th minute, hinting at the possibility of another remarkable comeback at Old Trafford.
Yet, in a dramatic turn of events, 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 left much to be desired among their fans, there was also scrutiny directed at ten Hag for one of his substitutions.
On the 80th minute mark, ten Hag opted to replace midfielder Kobbie Mainoo with Amad Diallo in a bid to inject more attacking prowess into United’s lineup.
While some supporters commended the Dutchman for providing Amad with an opportunity, others questioned his choice of player to substitute, especially considering Casemiro had already been replaced due to injury.
Voices on social media platforms like Twitter echoed the discontent, with one United fan expressing bewilderment: “He subbed out Mainoo for Amad.
Bruno was right there…” Another fan echoed similar sentiments, remarking, “I don’t understand this Eriksen sub; he could’ve just kept Mainoo on.”
The decision to substitute Mainoo, who was perceived as pivotal 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, there were fans who 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 worth noting 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 entirety of the game against Fulham.
