Erik ten Hag is a Manchester United manager under severe pressure, and he proved it ahead of his explosive press conference on Tuesday afternoon. The Dutchman ripped into the media ahead of United's Premier League clash against Sheffield United, but he started throwing jabs before fielding questions at Carrington.
Related articles
Ten Hag is under more intense scrutiny than ever before after watching his side surrender a 3-0 lead against Coventry City in Sunday's FA Cup semi-final.
United cruised into a three-goal advantage at Wembley Stadium after 70 minutes but were forced into extra-time by an incredible Coventry comeback.
The Championship outfit thought they completed one of English football's greatest-ever shocks by scoring a fourth at the end of extra time before an offside call by VAR denied Victor Torp.
United won 4-2 on penalties to reach a record 22nd FA Cup final and book a repeat of last year's meeting with Manchester City in the capital.
However, the capitulation did Ten Hag no favours, only increasing uncertainty over his future as Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS consider making a fresh start this summer.
During his press conference, the 54-year-old blasted the media's coverage of United's win as "embarrassing" and a "disgrace" in a defence of his cup final record at Old Trafford and Ajax.
Watch all the Premier League and Champions League drama unfold on TNT Sports
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
But even before reporters asked Ten Hag any questions, he set the tone with an awkward exchange as he entered the media room.
The United boss said "good morning" as he approached his seat, to which some reporters responded "good afternoon".
Ten Hag then corrected them, given it was before 12pm, stating: "Sharp. I notice not everyone is sharp here." When asked who wasn't sharp, he added: "Oh, the majority I would say."
He was later on the offensive in his press conference, ripping into the media for how United's FA Cup victory against Coventry had been covered.
Don't miss...
Man Utd reality check surely spells the end of Erik ten Hag as manager [NEWS]
Neal Maupay trolls Antony as Man Utd winger slammed for classless behaviour [SOCIAL]
What players said about Marcus Rashford after Man Utd FA Cup semi speaks volumes [REPORT]
Ten Hag said: "The reaction from you was embarrassing. It is the comments. Top football is about results. We made it to a final and we deserved it not only by this game but also the other games.
"We lost control for 20 mins, we also had bad luck, 3-2, 3-3. We were very lucky in the end, clear. Penalties was very good and we made it to the final, it is a huge achievement.
"Twice, in two years- is magnificent. For me as a manager, four cup final in four years. The comments are a disgrace."
Ten Hag's status next season may already be decided, but it would almost certainly become untenable with anything less than two wins against Sheffield United and Burnley at Old Trafford this week.
