Erik ten Hag reveals what Maurizio Mariani told him to explain controversial Marcus Rashford decision

Manchester United protests waved away in Europa League draw with Barcelona
AP
Marc Mayo16 February 2023

Erik ten Hag was left furious by a controversial refereeing decision in Manchester United’s Europa League draw with Barcelona.

The Red Devils fought back from a goal down to lead 2-1 at the Camp Nou on Thursday night, at which point Marcus Rashford tumbled under pressure from Jules Kounde when through on goal.

Referee Maurizio Mariani waved away United’s protests and VAR also did not intervene. No penalty check was available with the incident taking place just outside the box, but Ten Hag claimed a red-card check was required due to it being a potential last-man foul.

Barcelona went on to equalise through Raphinha and the sides reconvene for the second leg at Old Trafford next week.

“The refereeing had a big influence in this game,” Ten Hag told BT Sport.

“It’s a clear foul [on Rashford], you can discuss if it’s in or outside the box but [if outside] then it’s a red card. He’s one on one with the keeper. It’s a big influence not only on the game but on the round. Referees can’t make such big mistakes.”

Ten Hag remonstrated with officials after the match having been booked for his reaction to the decision.

He explained: “I asked the referee why. So he said it was outside the box and it was no foul. And the linesman and referee were in a very good position to see and I think we had VAR.

“I think it's not good, it was a really bad decision. I can't understand."

Rashford was also furious with the decision.

“It’s a massive moment in the game,” he said. “To be honest I’ve not watched it back, but in the moment I don’t understand why the linesman would think I’ve gone down. It’s not a penalty but it’s 100 per cent a foul for me.”

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