The match was over, but the media's battle had just begun.
They didn't let Erik ten Hag's defensive tactics slide, and his post-match interview was met with sharp criticism.
Daily Report: "The second half was so dull, Manchester United completely lost their fighting spirit. What is the significance of achieving such a draw for the team?"
Erik ten Hag: "I don't think the team lost its fighting spirit. Our defense was very good. When I decided to secure the draw, I had already anticipated this outcome."
"We were playing with one man down, and it was an away game. A draw is a good result for the team. I hope to lead the team further, which requires giving up some things. I prioritize the result."
Three Days Two Reports: "Does your 'result' include the impact of substituting Neymar and Gao Nuo?"
Erik ten Hag: "What impact could there be? Players serve the team; that's their job. I was also a professional athlete, and I understand their desire to play and to win. Being substituted must be disappointing. I will talk to them; it won't be a problem."
Truth-Seeking Report: "Manchester United's chances of winning the Premier League are very low. Is the team focusing more on the Champions League?"
Erik ten Hag: "As you said, the chances are low, but we still have an opportunity. At this stage of the season, few teams are still competing on three fronts, which proves a lot. We will try our best to win every match."
Football Weekly: "Manchester United's attack against Paris seemed disorganized. What's wrong with the front line?"
Erik ten Hag: "Nothing at all. Our front line is very powerful, and the team's goal count proves that. It's just that in this match, we didn't have the opportunity to make adjustments."
Erik ten Hag's answers were watertight; he has always handled media interviews well.
Fans were not satisfied with such official responses, and Manchester United's official website was the first to be hit.
"Easier said than done! Such an ugly draw, Manchester United is going off track."
"I'd rather the team lose by a large margin than watch another game like this!"
"Where are Erik ten Hag's tactical changes? Not a single shot on target in the second half. Such a frustrating game."
"Garnacho didn't get a chance to play, not even in the final stages of the game. Manchester United completely gave up on attacking!"
"Neymar's substitution shocked me. What are the team's standards for determining starters?"
"Besides new stars, the team should bring in a new coach."
"Sack him!"
"Sack him!"
Erik ten Hag's pragmatism failed to win the support of Manchester United fans.
Perhaps he still couldn't understand that Manchester United's honor is more important than a championship.
Being embroiled in a sacking crisis again wasn't the most troublesome thing; Arnold's renewed meeting sent Erik ten Hag's mood plummeting.
"Coach, I need a clear answer regarding Abraham's issue."
"Abraham's form makes it impossible for me to put him on the field. I don't understand why you're so persistent."
"Harry Kane has already gone to La Liga. The Premier League cannot be without a local striker to maintain competitiveness! Are you satisfied with that answer?"
"Even if it means sacrificing the team's performance?"
"No, not that. I just hope you can make a commitment to give him sufficient playing time next season."
"Sorry! I don't think I can do that, unless the club sells Gao Nuo!"
"Perhaps you can find a better solution. There's still time; please consider it carefully."
Meetings with Arnold always ended unhappily. Erik ten Hag forced himself to put these issues out of his mind; everything would come to a head a month later.
Now, winning the championship was the most important thing.
Having been substituted in the last match, Gao Nuo was equally unwilling. Being a spectator on the bench is the most frustrating thing for every professional player.
On May 3, 2025, in the 36th round of the Premier League, Manchester United defeated Brighton 3-2 away.
Manchester United's rotated squad performed well, with Antony scoring a goal in the first half.
In the 66th minute, starting player Gao Nuo scored a goal before being substituted, along with Bruno Fernandes.
Erik ten Hag firmly refused to give Abraham any playing time, setting up a false nine formation while leading 2-0.
Brighton seized the opportunity, equalizing the score with consecutive counter-attacks.
Finally, Manchester United narrowly secured 3 points with Garnacho's solo goal in the 81st minute.
Erik ten Hag successfully threw himself under the media's gunfire.
Doubts from Manchester United fans about his on-the-spot coaching grew more intense.
Gao Nuo had no time to worry about public opinion; Challenge Road's 60th level had become his nightmare.
"System, let's look at my attributes."
"Okay, host: Gao Nuo, 21 years old.
Height 192cm, Weight 90kg
Ball Control: 14
Passing: 13
Shooting: 16
Positioning: 15
Ball Reception: 14
Strength: 16
Stamina: 16
Speed: 18
Explosiveness: 19
Willpower: 18
Comprehension: 13
Decision Making: 14
Concentration: 17
Teamwork: 16
Maximum attribute value is 20. Other attributes are currently hidden attributes."
There wasn't much growth in technical ability, but Gao Nuo was pleasantly surprised to find that his physical fitness was even stronger, with his strength and stamina becoming increasingly formidable.
"System, if I don't clear Challenge Road, it will be difficult for my attributes to improve?"
"host, physical fitness is in a growth phase between 20 and 28 years old. During this period, as your body becomes stronger, it will have a certain impact on your technique."
"So, my limit at 21 is as it is now?"
"That's one way to understand it. The host is already in a state of fully realizing all his talents."
"Then how else can I improve?"
"For example, legendary player Messi, his talent is not limited to ball control. His understanding of the game allows him to drive the entire team's offense."
"The legendary aura of a king?"
"Exactly, it's just that everyone's method is different. Example 2, legendary player Ronaldo, he leads the team forward with his fighting spirit."
"Then what method should I use?"
"Please clear Challenge Road, and the answer will appear."
"A hint?"
"Tactical literacy!"
"I don't understand!"
"That's not my fault!"
"Goodbye!"
Once again, being snubbed by the system, Gao Nuo entered a new round of challenges indignantly.
An hour and a half later.
"System, a hint?"
"Tactical literacy!"
"You old man! Goodbye!"
"I don't have an old man!"
Time flew by quickly. After a short break, Manchester United awaited their opponent at Old Trafford.
