Roy Keane has called on Ajax manager Erik ten Hag to resign after the Dutchman broke the former Manchester United hardman’s golden rule.
The former United captain was left unimpressed by Ten Hag’s decision to substitute goalkeeper Andre Onana in the second half of Ajax’s Champions League quarter-final against Juventus.
Onana had been in fine form for the Dutch side, making a number of crucial saves to keep the scoreline level at 1-1. However, Ten Hag decided to replace him with Maarten Stekelenburg in the second half, a move which ultimately proved costly as Juventus went on to win the game 2-1.
Keane, who was renowned for his no-nonsense approach to the game during his playing days, was not impressed by Ten Hag’s decision and believes the Ajax manager should take responsibility for his mistake and resign.
Speaking on Sky Sports, Keane said: “I think Ten Hag should resign. He made a huge mistake. He should have stuck with Onana. He was the best player on the pitch and he should have kept him on.
“It’s a golden rule in football that you don’t change a winning team. He should have stuck with Onana and he should take responsibility for his mistake and resign.”
Keane’s comments have been met with a mixed reaction from fans and pundits alike, with some agreeing with the former United captain and others believing that Ten Hag should be given the chance to redeem himself.
However, there is no denying that Ten Hag’s decision to substitute Onana was a costly one and it could ultimately cost Ajax their place in the Champions League.
Keane’s comments may be harsh, but they are a reminder of the importance of sticking to the basics in football and not taking unnecessary risks. Ten Hag’s decision to substitute Onana was a risk that ultimately did not pay off and Keane believes the Ajax manager should take responsibility for his mistake and resign.
