Manchester United’s latest setback in the derby against Manchester City on Sunday has sparked fierce criticism, with club legend Roy Keane leading the charge.
Softfootball reports that the former Red Devil’s captain known for his intensity and standards was left stunned by the lack of bite and aggression shown by his former club.
The former midfielder and United icon pointed out that not a single Red Devils player picked up a yellow card in the derby. In his view, the team should have shown more physical edge, especially in a match of this magnitude.
Speaking after the 3-0 defeat at the Etihad, Keane zeroed in on one striking details as reported by Fabrizio Romanao on his Facebook page.
The Red Devil’s legend was shocked that Manchester United players failed to pick up a single yellow card in the match. For Keane, that statistic was less about discipline and more about desire and grit. The post reads:
Roy Keane: Not ONE yellow card for a Manchester United player.
It’s the Manchester derby, it’s raining. You shouldn’t be able to get out of bed for a week after a game like this
But NOT ONE YELLOW CARD! Try and hit somebody! Football is a PHYSICAL GAME.
The Manchester derby, traditionally one of English football’s fiercest rivalries has long been defined by intensity, passion, and uncompromising challenges. But this United side looked a shadow of those battle hardened teams of old, unable to disrupt City’s rhythm or match their energy.
Man City controlled the match from start to finish. United meanwhile, fell short not only tactically but mentally. Their inability to impose themselves physically reinforced a wider concern.
Amid all the noise and complaints from United fans, head coach Rúben Amorim responded to criticism of his side, stressing that he has no intention of abandoning his philosophy as reported earlier by Softfootball.
Keane’s words captured a sentiment many supporters share that United’s players failed to embody the spirit demanded in a derby. Until that changes, results and reputations will continue to suffer on the biggest stages.
The result from the derby means United have won just one of their opening four league games, losing to both Arsenal and City, as well as drawing away to Fulham.
After four rounds, Manchester United have collected just four points, their worst start to a season since the 1992-93 campaign. Back then, under Sir Alex Ferguson, the Red Devils also managed only four points from their opening four games.
