Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim stood by his controversial decision to drop Marcus Rashford from the squad, even after the team’s dramatic 4-3 loss to Tottenham Hotspur in the Carabao Cup quarterfinals.
Rashford, absent for the second consecutive game after also being left out of the squad for United’s 2-1 victory over Manchester City, has sparked speculation about his future.
The 27-year-old forward hinted in a Tuesday interview that he may seek an exit from Old Trafford.
When questioned about his stance following the defeat to Spurs, Amorim remained steadfast.
“I feel that I do the right thing for the team, so it’s never a mistake.”
“We have to make a selection. I think it wasn’t a mistake because I’m always doing the best for the team in my way of seeing things.”
United mounted a spirited comeback without Rashford, recovering from a 3-0 deficit to close the gap to 3-2 after two blunders from Spurs’ goalkeeper Fraser Forster.
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However, Tottenham regained control with a fourth goal, and a late strike from Jonny Evans wasn’t enough to prevent elimination.
Costly Lapses Punish United
Amorim lamented a lapse in focus during an eight-minute stretch early in the second half, during which Tottenham netted twice.
“We controlled possession, I think,” Amorim reflected.
“We were not the best team throughout the game, but for most parts, we were.
I think we disconnected for eight minutes, and it’s really hard to recover from that.
The lads did a great job trying to bounce back, but the fourth goal made it tough for us. In the end, it wasn’t enough, and we’re out of the cup.”
Goalkeeping Errors Take Center Stage
Both teams struggled with goalkeeping mistakes. United’s backup keeper, Altay Bayindir, starting in place of André Onana, was culpable for two of Tottenham’s goals.
Meanwhile, Forster’s errors, particularly his hesitation with a back pass that allowed Amad Diallo to score, drew criticism.
Spurs manager Ange Postecoglou defended his goalkeeper despite the mishaps.
“He’s disappointed because he’s been outstanding for us,” Postecoglou said.
“The first mistake probably affected his confidence, and the second compounded it. But he’s a big player who has stepped up for us time and time again.”
Semifinal Fixtures Set
Tottenham will face Liverpool in their semifinal first leg on the weekend of January 6, while Newcastle United travels to Arsenal for the other semifinal clash.
This quarterfinal defeat raises further questions about Manchester United’s form and squad decisions as they navigate a challenging season.
