In Sunday’s FA Cup semi-final against Coventry City, Manchester United looked set for a win with a 3-0 lead. However, a stunning comeback from Coventry pushed the match into extra time.
Ellis Simms and Callum O’Hare scored for Coventry, reducing the deficit to one goal. United’s defensive approach in the final minutes led to a Coventry penalty in the 95th minute, resulting in an equalizer by Haji Wright and extending the match.
Coventry thought they had secured a win with a goal by Victor Torp in the 121st minute, but VAR ruled it offside.
United eventually won the penalty shootout 4-2, but fans were left puzzled by the team’s late collapse, with many blaming manager Erik ten Hag for his substitution choices.
The decision to substitute winger Alejandro Garnacho in the 66th minute, with United leading 3-0, was questioned by fans. This was the third time this month that Garnacho had been replaced while United was ahead.
Previously, he was taken off against Chelsea, leading to a Chelsea comeback win, and again against Liverpool, resulting in a draw.
On social media, United fans voiced frustration with Ten Hag’s repeated substitutions of Garnacho. Some called it “an absolute joke,” while others questioned Ten Hag’s failure to substitute other players like Marcus Rashford.
Despite Garnacho’s inconsistent form, he has been a standout performer for United this season, contributing nine goals and four assists in 42 appearances across all competitions.
