EPL: Why Man Utd lost 6-3 to Man City – Ten Hag

Manchester United manager, Erik ten Hag, has blamed a lack of belief for their 6-3 defeat at Manchester City on Sunday.

Erling Haaland and Phil Foden both netted hat-tricks as the champions outclassed the Red Devils at the Etihad.

Ten Hag, speaking to Sky Sports after the match, said: “It was a lack of belief. I’m surprised why we didn’t bring that on the pitch. I have seen a different team, a different spirit and a different fight. We didn’t have convincement. We were not brave in possession.

“It is always difficult to find out. The players know they can do better. If you don’t fight then you have a problem against a team like Manchester City.

“This is definitely different [to Brentford]. We didn’t run there. We wanted to today but didn’t follow the priniciples. It was a lack of belief. I will show the team that we could have been front-footed. We win the ball then give it away for the first goal. We take wrong decisions in the transition afterwards. We don’t follow the rules so we are undisciplined. It cannot happen. It is unacceptable.

“It is a process. It is one game. Maybe against other teams the problems would not come but against Manchester City they will. I want to change the head and the attitude from the team. There was a reaction in the second half. We were more brave and scored three goals. Only from mistakes you learn.”