Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag expressed criticism towards Nottingham Forest for targeting Bruno Fernandes in the 1-0 FA Cup victory, while also praising the midfielder and defender Raphael Varane for their determination to play through injuries.
Both Varane and Fernandes, initially doubtful due to injury concerns, played the full 90 minutes in United’s win at Forest. Despite facing strong tackles and physical challenges from Forest players, Fernandes set up Casemiro for the 89th-minute winner.
Speaking about Fernandes’ fitness and the targeting by Forest players, Ten Hag stated in a post-match interview, “You saw that Forest were targeting him. There were many fouls on him, and you see when he is getting the ball, they are really tight on him. I was very happy Rapha fought to play this game, and also Bruno. He had a very bad injury as well. He fought to be part of this game.”
Ten Hag defended Fernandes against social media criticism related to an apparent injury during the defeat to Fulham, emphasizing that the midfielder was genuinely injured. “He has a serious injury, he continued to play on Saturday, and now also he fought to be part of this game. He has a very high pain threshold… When you see that maybe they criticize him on social media, it’s pathetic. It can’t be,” added the Dutch manager.
