The Dutchman produced a tactical masterclass in the face of growing speculation he would be sacked, and embarrassed his bosses in the process.
Erik ten Hag was in a combative mood all week, furious with journalists who repeatedly questioned him about his future and take on the experts to expect Manchester United to win every game. And when he arrived at Wembley on Saturday, he took off his gloves and dealt a final blow to Manchester City.
Despite the lack of respect from his bosses at INEOS, who spoke to other coaches about the possibility of replacing the Dutchman, Ten Hag produced a perfect game plan and did something no other coach has not managed to beat Unai Emery in December. City in 90 minutes.
Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho were the stars of this cup clash, which was made at United's academy. But Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane also played crucial rules as they blanked City for most of the match until Jeremy Doku gave the Red Devils a late scare.
Doku was the only City striker who could be happy with his performance as Erling Haaland, Kevin De Bruyne and Julian Alvarez all struggled to feature or take their chances. Pep Guardiola's side were hot favourites, with some bookmakers offering odds of 7/1 for a United triumph, but they could not handle the Red Devils, who dashed their hopes of becoming the Premier League team. history of English football to achieve a consecutive victory. double back.
AIM breaks down the winners and losers at Wembley…