Manchester United is facing mounting criticism as they grapple with their underwhelming performance this season, reflected not only on the scoreboard but also through biting assessments from former players. The current state of the Red Devils drew sharp remarks from ex-defender John Sivebaek, who recently labeled striker Rasmus Hojlund as a ‘completely hopeless boy among men’ following their latest loss.
Despite progressing to the last 16 of the Europa League and knocking out Arsenal from the FA Cup, Manchester United's Premier League campaign has been riddled with challenges. They have lost six of the twelve league matches since Ruben Amorim took charge, raising concerns about their slide down the league table. Criticism has particularly focused on the forward line, which has struggled to find the net, with only five teams scoring fewer goals than United this season.
Hojlund, who made a significant £72 million move from Atalanta, has scored just two goals in 18 appearances. His performances have led to uncertainty about his future, with sources indicating he might be effectively on trial until the season's end. If he cannot significantly improve, United may decide to let him go come summer.
Sivebaek, who is sympathetic to the young Dane, did not hold back on his critique. "Should never have started [against Southampton] and apart from one good move where he set up Garnacho, he was completely hopeless again. A boy among men," Sivebaek stated, highlighting Hojlund's lack of impact against Southampton. He acknowledged the high expectations—often likened to those placed on Erling Haaland—can weigh heavily on younger players, especially when they are not performing as anticipated.
Former United legend Rio Ferdinand added another layer to the discussion, emphasizing the need for player development. "I feel like because Hojlund was £70m-odd we’re expecting the finished article. Unfortunately [he’s not]. He’s got nobody to learn off," said Ferdinand. These remarks shed light on the broader issues within the club's recruitment and development strategy.
Meanwhile, Amorim faced the press following United's disappointing 2-0 home defeat to Crystal Palace. The match saw the team record only two shots on target, raising questions about their attacking strategy. Amorim's decision to deploy Kobbie Mainoo as a false nine was not successful, and his comments reflected the gravity of the situation. "The result is really bad. The performance was a little bit... we suffered two goals... which is really disappointing today," he told Sky Sports after the match.
Hojlund's continued struggles have coincided with injuries to key players, particularly Lisandro Martinez, who was stretchered off with what appeared to be a serious leg injury during the Crystal Palace game. "Lisandro's injury was tough for the team... It’s normal for the fans to feel negative; it is hard season for them. We need to move forward, but we take some things from performance but not the result," Amorim remarked, conveying his determination to right the ship.
There are discussions about potential new signings as United aims to inject fresh talent before the January transfer window closes. With Rashford heading to Aston Villa on loan, United is reportedly focusing on acquiring strikers like Mathys Tel and Christopher Nkunku, emphasizing the urgency to improve their attacking output. Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee's struggles have underscored the pressing need for reinforcements.
Patrick Dorgu, who recently joined the Red Devils, expressed confidence about the club's direction under Amorim. "I am incredibly proud to be able to call myself a Manchester United player... there is a clear plan set out for my development," he stated enthusiastically following his signing.
Manchester United stands at a crossroads; the combination of underperforming players, management challenges, and injury woes presents significant obstacles to their aspirations. While the season still has time to recover, the club desperately needs to address these issues both from within and through strategic signings.