Manchester United manager explains Fred decision in defeat to PSG in champions league

Paris Saint-Germain won the big game against Manchester United and avoided a humiliating early exit from the Champions League as Neymar scored twice in a 3-1 win away to Manchester United.

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer defended his decision not to take off Fred and demand more from his striker from their 3-1 Champions League defeat to PSG at Old Trafford.

PSG Neymar struck twice while United missed several easy chances when the scores were level at 1-1 after Marcus Rashford’s equaliser.

In the first half, Fred was fortunate to not get red card when Fred aimed his head towards PSG Leandro Paredes, who went to ground after their head clash. Referee looked at a VAR and it appeared likely a red card would be produced, but it was just a yellow from VAR decision but later in second half, Fred was then sent off for a hard challenge on Ander Herrera.

Solskjaer said he had considered replacing the Brazilian but felt the dismissal was harsh.

“Fred has played really well. We spoke about staying calm and on your feet. The second yellow card was nowhere near a foul. Ander (Herrera) knows that,” he said.

“It was a very good game which deserved fans. With a bit more clinical finishing we should have finished the game. They were there for the taking.

“We had some big chances. The difference when you get to the big games is the clinical moments.”

Next time in Champion league, Manchester United will face Leipzig next match after a 3-1 home defeat to Paris Saint-Germain left their Champions League hopes hanging in the balance.

“The destiny is still in our hands. If we go to Leipzig and win the game we go through. We want to be in the Champions League and we need to show that next week with a good performance,” he said.

United captain Harry Maguire felt his team had been unlucky.

“We had better chances. Their two goals are scrappy goals – ricochet and pinball around the box. I feel we deserved something,” he said.

“You’ve got to take your chances and not give away soft goals. But we’re still in control of going through to the knockout stages.”