“Amorim just did the most idiotic thing that a manager can do. When I came out and said that he wasn’t the man for the job, I was criticized but this match just proved my point. He basically lead his team to defeat” – This is according to Gary Neville as he points out where Ruben Amorim Went Wrong as Manchester United Suffer Humiliating Home Defeat to Wolves.
Old Trafford witnessed yet another night of frustration and disbelief as Manchester United suffered a crushing 3-0 defeat to Wolverhampton Wanderers — and former club captain Gary Neville did not hold back in his post-match assessment.
Old Trafford witnessed yet another night of frustration and disbelief as Manchester United suffered a crushing 3-0 defeat to Wolverhampton Wanderers — and former club captain Gary Neville did not hold back in his post-match assessment.
In the aftermath of what many fans are calling one of the most embarrassing home performances in recent memory, Neville launched a scathing critique of head coach Rúben Amorim. The Sky Sports pundit, who has been openly skeptical about Amorim’s appointment since day one, declared:
“Amorim just did the most idiotic thing that a manager can do. When I came out and said he wasn’t the man for the job, I was criticized — but this match just proved my point. He basically led his team to defeat.”
Tactical Naivety on Display
Neville was referring specifically to Amorim’s tactical setup, which left United’s midfield wide open and exposed. In what was perceived as a bold — if not reckless — decision, Amorim deployed a high defensive line and instructed both fullbacks to push aggressively forward. That plan backfired almost immediately as Wolves capitalized on the space left behind.
With Pedro Neto and Matheus Cunha tearing down the flanks, and Hwang Hee-chan exploiting every inch of space through the middle, United’s backline was left in disarray. Wolves were clinical and efficient, scoring twice in the first half and effectively silencing the Theatre of Dreams before the halftime whistle.
No Midfield Balance, No Defensive Solidity
Neville also pointed to the absence of any real midfield balance, describing Amorim’s decision to start two attack-minded midfielders as “football suicide” against a Wolves side known for their pace in transition.
“He handed the midfield to Wolves on a silver platter,” Neville said. “They played like they were in training. No pressure, no grit, no structure — and it all starts with the manager.”
Bruno Fernandes and Mason Mount, both more known for their creativity than defensive discipline, struggled to track back and provide cover. Casemiro, deployed alone as the defensive pivot, was overwhelmed and often caught out of position.
Poor In-Game Management
Perhaps what irked Neville the most was Amorim’s apparent reluctance to adapt. Despite United’s struggles being glaringly obvious to the fans, pundits, and even Wolves’ bench, the manager waited until the 75th minute to make any significant tactical changes.
By then, the damage had been done. Wolves were 3-0 up and cruising, while United looked lost and deflated.
“The worst part wasn’t even the starting lineup,” Neville continued. “It was the stubbornness. He stood there like a statue while his team got torn apart. A good manager adjusts. Amorim didn’t.”
United Fans Begin to Ask Questions
Amorim’s appointment was initially met with cautious optimism, given his impressive record with Sporting Lisbon. However, a string of inconsistent performances in the Premier League — particularly at home — has now begun to test the patience of United faithful.
Social media erupted after the final whistle, with “#AmorimOut” trending within the hour. Many fans echoed Neville’s sentiments, questioning whether the Portuguese coach truly understands the demands of Premier League football — and more importantly, the weight of the Manchester United badge.
What’s Next for Amorim and United?
With the Europa League knockout stages looming and a crucial clash with Liverpool just days away, the pressure on Amorim has never been higher. While the board has publicly backed the manager, performances like this make it increasingly difficult to justify their trust.
If there’s one thing that history has shown at Old Trafford, it’s that patience is not infinite — and if results continue to spiral, changes may come sooner rather than later.
For now, the red half of Manchester is left picking up the pieces of another humiliating night — and wondering if Gary Neville’s early warnings were right all along.