In a high-stakes Carabao Cup third-round match on September 17th, Manchester United comfortably dispatched League One’s Barnsley with a resounding 7-0 victory at Old Trafford. This commanding win was not just a statement of intent but also a demonstration of Erik ten Hag’s tactical nous, with United showing their class at every turn.

United’s Road to Recovery

After a shaky start to the season, which saw Manchester United struggling for form in the Premier League, this cup tie offered a welcome respite. Their recent 3-0 victory over Southampton in the league gave them the boost they needed, and they carried that momentum into the match against Barnsley. Erik ten Hag has often leaned on these domestic cup competitions to recalibrate his team, and this was no different (90Min, Sky Sports).

Barnsley, meanwhile, had started their Carabao Cup journey by upsetting Championship side Sheffield United in the second round, but the jump in class when facing United proved too much for the Tykes. Barnsley manager Darrell Clarke had led them to a respectable seventh place in League One, but they came into this match after a disappointing 3-0 defeat to Stevenage (90Min, Sky Sports).

The Match Unfolds

From the very beginning, Manchester United dominated the match. Ten Hag fielded a slightly rotated squad, yet the likes of Alejandro Garnacho and Joshua Zirkzee—both of whom got on the scoresheet—delivered star performances (90Min). Harry Maguire, often a target for criticism, marshalled the defence admirably, helping to keep Barnsley from creating any meaningful chances.

Barnsley’s high hopes of causing an upset quickly faded as United opened the scoring early and never looked back. With five goals in the first half alone, the game was effectively over by half-time (Sky Sports, SportyTrader).

Barnsley’s Struggles and United’s Brilliance

Barnsley’s lack of firepower was evident, especially after their top forwards, Max Watters and Fabio Jalo, returned from injury too late to make a real impact (Sky Sports). The Barnsley defence was torn apart by United’s fluid attack, led by Garnacho and supported by the experience of Casemiro in midfield.

The second half was more of the same, with Manchester United piling on the goals. Antony, making his return to form, netted a superb brace, while substitute Hannibal Mejbri added to the scoreline with a well-taken goal (Sky Sports, SportyTrader). Barnsley’s keeper, Chelsea loanee Gabriel Slonina, faced a barrage of shots and despite his best efforts, the gulf in quality was too great to bridge (90Min).

Quotes from the Camp

Erik ten Hag, clearly pleased with his side’s performance, said post-match, “It was important for us to come back strong. The lads showed great character and discipline.” He emphasized the importance of keeping the squad focused on the long season ahead (Sky Sports).

Barnsley’s Darrell Clarke, on the other hand, remained philosophical about the heavy defeat. “We knew it was always going to be tough, but the boys gave it their all. We’ll regroup and focus on the league from here,” Clarke noted (SportyTrader).

What’s Next?

Manchester United’s thrashing of Barnsley sends them comfortably into the fourth round of the Carabao Cup, where tougher challenges no doubt await. For Barnsley, the focus shifts back to League One, where they will look to bounce back from this defeat and push for a promotion spot (90Min, Sky Sports).

This match was not only a demonstration of Manchester United’s superior depth but also a glimpse into how seriously Ten Hag takes the domestic cup competitions. As the season progresses, performances like this will help build momentum, especially with a demanding schedule ahead (90Min).

For more stories and insights, visit It’s On.

Instagram:@itson.ie

TikTok videos and information:@itson.ie