Mizgan Masani
Facundo Pellistri reveals what Erik ten Hag said ahead of his first start
Manchester United youngster Facundo Pellistri revealed that boss Erik ten Hag wanted him to run behind and enjoy the game ahead of his senior start.
Pellistri made his first start as a United player in the second leg of the Europa League last-16 tie against Real Betis. He had a decent game and played full 90 minutes, depicting the faith shown in him by the manager.
The Uruguayan international had made six appearances prior to that game, but those appearances amounted to just 102 minutes. He must feel confident after completing his first 90 as a United player.
Here’s what the 21-year-old said about his first start and what the manager told him (h/t Manchester Evening News):
“I’m really happy. I really work for this moment, luckily we could win. It was our mission. We came here to win, we could win.
“The manager really trusts me, so I felt that confidence from him. He told me to run behind, to get the ball and enjoy, enjoy the moment.”
Given the talent Pellistri has, we won’t be surprised if he starts more games for us in the near future. The former Alaves winger has the attributes to do well under ten Hag.
The United boss has not hesitated in giving young players a chance to shine on the biggest of stages. We have already seen how Alejandro Garnacho played in his first full season here before unfortunately picking up an injury last week.
Although not young anymore, but the transformation of Marcus Rashford’s form tells us that ten Hag knows how to get the best out of the players.
Time to look ahead now, with a tricky quarter-final tie of the FA Cup awaiting against Fulham on Sunday. Marco Silva’s men are one of the in-form teams in the division this season, hence they will give them all to go as far as they can in the competition.
More Manchester United News:
- Preston North End to discuss Alvaro Fernandez future with Manchester United
- Manchester United among clubs interested in David Raya
- Erik ten Hag confirms “serious” injury to Manchester United star Alejandro Garnacho
For ten Hag’s men, they are one step away from making another trip to Wembley, which would be great for the fans and the squad.
