Former Manchester United Star Blasts Erik ten Hag Over Lack of Respect

Former Manchester United youth prospect Zidane Iqbal has criticized his previous manager Erik ten Hag, explaining how the Dutch coach played a crucial role in his departure from Old Trafford.

The Manchester-born midfielder progressed through United's academy ranks and was previously viewed as a promising talent following strong showings in youth football and pre-season matches. The Iraq representative earned only one first-team appearance for United in a Champions League match during 2021-22 but appeared poised for a breakthrough under Ten Hag the following season.

Iqbal frequently found himself among the substitutes in 2022-23 and was expected to feature in United's Carabao Cup quarter-final against Charlton Athletic, but Ten Hag's choice to overlook the midfielder for the 3-0 win became a pivotal moment in his journey.

"I was set to start a cup match against Charlton Athletic from League One," Iqbal shared with The National. "I participated in all the tactical preparations during pre-match training.

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"I was lined up as a No.10 and Lisandro Martinez approached me saying: 'This is your opportunity'. He spoke with me and said: 'Everyone is behind you. Just demonstrate your abilities, you're a talented player. We'll support you, ensure you're prepared to compete'.

"It inspired me and it was encouraging from him, a fierce leader in the squad, an important player. I arranged tickets for family and friends to watch me play. Finally, my moment had arrived. Then I reached the stadium, checked the team sheet and couldn't find my name. I was devastated.

"Then I expected I'd enter as a substitute...nothing happened. That became the decisive moment for me. I felt the manager didn't show me sufficient respect to give me playing time."

Iqbal currently plays for FC Utrecht in the Netherlands where he has featured in 40 matches over the past two campaigns. Time will tell whether United will come to regret Ten Hag's questionable handling of the adaptable 22-year-old.