Erik ten Hag was left fuming after Jules Kounde was not sent off for fouling Marcus Rashfordduring Manchester United’s draw at Barcelona on Thursday evening.
In a thrilling game at the Camp Nou, United came away with a 2-2 draw in the first-leg of their Europa League play-off.
Rashford continued his fine form by scoring his 22nd goal of the season with a sublime strike in the 52nd minute but was also involved in a highly controversial moment later on.
With the score at 2-1, the forward broke free of Barcelona’s defence but as he closed in on goal Jules Kounde fouled him from behind with Rashford instantly appealing for a penalty.
But the referee waved for play to continue and while replays showed that the incident occurred just outside the box, many believed that it should have at least have been a free-kick to United.
Ten Hag certainly thought so during the game, getting a booking for his protests towards the officials, and he did not hold back in his post-match interview, telling BT Sport: ‘The refereeing had a big influence in this game.
‘A clear foul on Rashy. You can discuss if it’s in or outside the box, but then it’s a red card because he’s one on one with the keeper.
It’s a big influence not just on this game but also on the next round. Referees can’t make such mistakes.’
Rashford was equally scathing of the officials, adding: ‘It’s a massive moment in the game.
‘To be honest I’ve not watched it back but in the moment I don’t understand why the linesman or the referee thinks I’m going down there.
