Fans confused as Erik ten Hag explains the reasoning behind substituting Marcus Rashford at halftime during the match against FC Porto.

Supporters left puzzled as Erik ten Hag reveals why Marcus Rashford was subbed off at halftime against FC Porto.

Marcus Rashford was one of Manchester United’s standout players in the first half of their Europa League match against FC Porto, scoring an early goal and assisting Rasmus Hojlund for another. Despite his strong performance, manager Erik ten Hag replaced him at halftime, which many thought was due to injury.

However, after the match, Ten Hag clarified that the substitution was a tactical decision to rotate the squad ahead of their upcoming game against Aston Villa, stating the need for fresh legs. This explanation left many fans puzzled, given Rashford’s impact on the game. Some expressed their disbelief on social media, calling the decision surprising and questioning the rationale behind taking off one of United’s best players on the night.

United secured a dramatic equalizer in Portugal when substitute Harry Maguire scored with a header from a corner, leveling the match at 3-3. They are currently positioned 21st in the Europa League standings, having earned two points out of a possible six.