Erik ten Hag insisted on deploying a 'tactical nightmare' in the FA Cup final

Manchester United boss convinced by his coaches to change approach against Crystal Palace

Erik ten Hag was talked out of a "tactical nightmare" ahead of last season's FA Cup final, according to reports. The Dutchman was keen to deploy a high defensive line against Crystal Palace, but his coaches convinced him to change his approach.

Ten Hag had planned to use a high defensive line in order to press Palace high up the pitch and win the ball back quickly. However, his coaches, including Steve McClaren and Mitchell van der Gaag, were concerned that this would leave United vulnerable to counter-attacks.

They argued that Palace had pacey forwards who could exploit the space behind United's defence, and that it would be better to sit deeper and soak up the pressure. Ten Hag eventually agreed with his coaches, and United went on to win the match 2-1.

Ten Hag's tactical flexibility

Ten Hag's willingness to change his approach shows his tactical flexibility. He is not afraid to listen to the advice of his coaches and players, and he is always willing to adapt his tactics to suit the opposition.

This is a valuable quality for a manager, as it allows him to get the best out of his players and maximize his team's chances of success.

United's defensive vulnerabilities

United's defensive vulnerabilities were exposed in the FA Cup final, as Palace had several chances to score on the counter-attack. This is a concern for Ten Hag, as he knows that United will need to be more solid defensively if they are to challenge for major trophies.

He will be working on improving United's defensive record in the coming weeks and months, and he will be hoping that his team can be more consistent at the back next season.