Ten Hag’s magic touch ahead Manchester United vs Newcastle

You knew Manchester United would defeat Barcelona.

At no point during their Europa League Round of 32 second leg, did you feel the runaway LaLiga leaders would leave Old Trafford with a famous win.

Not even when Robert Lewandowski squeezed a controversial penalty past David De Gea in the first leg.

With Barca 1-0 up at half time, Erik ten Hag worked his magic.

The Dutchman took off the ineffective Wout Weghorst and introduced Anthony to provide width, while Bruno Fernandes moved into the middle to orchestrate proceedings.

Fred levelled the game with a smart finish, before Antony curled in a delightful second. Full time: Manchester United 2 Barcelona 1.

Ten Hag got off to a rocky start with the Red Devils. But over the past few months, he has stamped his authority on a wobbling team. Cristiano Ronaldo was ushered out, Jadon Sancho went to Holland to rediscover himself, while Marcus Rashford exploded like a zillion stars.

This weekend, United have the chance to end their six-year wait for silverware, when they play Newcastle in the Carabao Cup final.

The Magpies are having a dreamy season themselves, sitting in fifth place on the Premier League table, just one behind fourth-placed Tottenham Hotspur.

Newcastle are looking to play in their first cup final since 1999. They have not lifted a domestic trophy since winning the FA Cup in 1955.

But the odds favour Ten Hag’s men who are still chasing four trophies as it stands.

The 52-year-old already had a fine reputation from his time at Ajax. But how has he enhanced it in England’s top flight?

Bolarinwa Olajide, a Sports Broadcaster and Brand Ambassador for Fantasy League Play, tries to explain