November 4th 2025.
Gary Neville expressed his dissatisfaction with some of Manchester United's seasoned players. He specifically called out a group of them for not performing up to par in Ruben Amorim's team. Despite the team's recent progress, their 2-2 draw against Nottingham Forest on Saturday was viewed as a step back. This was after a string of three consecutive wins against Sunderland, Liverpool, and Brighton, which seemed to indicate a turning point for the team. Additionally, new signings Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha were making a significant impact on the field.
However, the match against Forest showed familiar weaknesses in the team, according to Neville. He believes that four players in particular need to step up their game. As he puts it, the "spine" of a football team is crucial. This was evident in his early days at United, where the team's spine consisted of legendary players like Schmeichel, Bruce, Pallister, Keane, and Cantona. They were able to rely on each other and deliver consistent performances week after week.
Neville feels that the current spine of Maguire, de Ligt, Casemiro, and Bruno Fernandes, although experienced, should be performing much better. He believes that Maguire and de Ligt, in particular, should be doing more considering their extensive experience at the highest level of the game. Meanwhile, Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes bring valuable experience in the midfield, but Neville points out that the team lacks experienced players up front.
In comparison, Neville highlights Liverpool's strength in their spine, with players like Alisson, van Dijk, Mac Allister, and Gravenberch in midfield, and their formidable forwards. He believes this is a key factor in their success. In conclusion, Neville emphasizes the importance of a strong spine in a football team, and how it can make all the difference in delivering consistent and reliable performances.
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