Jose Mourinho expects nothing less than perfect from his Manchester United players.
But after Manchester United were sent flying out of the Carabao Cup, the manager knew it was a huge moment for the home team, Bristol City.
Speaking on the disappointing loss following the match Mourinho stated that the home side was lucky to come away with the win.
"“We don’t want extra-time, of course we try to win the game in the 90 minutes – which is why I say they were lucky. They had the luck of the game but they fought to be lucky. Sometimes you think that luck comes from nowhere, but normally luck comes from effort, from belief, which they had.”"
Manchester United were at near full strength for the match. But post hits from Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Marcus Rashford, amongst others ensured that we only had one goal.
It’s an embarrassing loss for United. The Red Devils were the current holders, and even if the EFL Cup wasn’t a priority, our second team should have been able to deal with Bristol.
Mourinho, despite the jab at the home team’s fortunes, still offered his congratulations. The gaffer knows it was a huge day for the players.
"“They played brilliantly; they fought like it was the game of their lives, which probably it was. A beautiful day for football. A team from the lower division won. A big day for them.”"
A big day, indeed. Anytime Manchester United loses, it’s a big deal. Especially when it’s a massive upset like the match yesterday.
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However, this could honestly be seen as a blessing. United are in second place in the Premier League — and with the upcoming schedule they could make up ground fast should City slip up.
The club has advanced to the knockout stages of the Champions League. A tough Sevilla side are waiting, and it will be a great two-legged fixture.
The FA Cup is still a possibility. The Reds last won it in 2016, and now that they are eliminated from the EFL Cup they can solely focus on that.
This loss can go down as a blessing. The Reds already have a tough, jam-packed schedule. Two less potential games and two fewer trips to London can do wonders when those days are replaced with rest days.
Sure, these players are professionals who don’t like losing. Ever. But sometimes its best to focus your attention on the competitions that mean the most. Even if that means losing to Bristol City in the EFL Cup.
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The pundits and football fans are taking their shots at Mourinho and United at the moment. It was a poor performance. But United are better off than most clubs in the Premiership at the moment.
Let Bristol have their big day, and refocus on the League.