October 6th 2024.
Paul Scholes expressed his disappointment with Manchester United's performance in their 0-0 draw against Aston Villa, which saw Joshua Zirkzee come off the bench in the second half. Scholes, who has been critical of the club's recruitment in the past, highlighted his concerns about Zirkzee and the team's lack of a clear playing style under manager Erik ten Hag.
United, who have had a tough start to the season, were hoping for a strong performance after their midweek draw against Porto. However, a much-changed team struggled to create chances, with Bruno Fernandes coming closest with a free-kick that hit the crossbar. In stoppage time, United had a golden opportunity to score, but Alejandro Garnacho's pass to Fernandes was unsuccessful.
The result leaves United in 14th place in the Premier League, a position that former player Dimitar Berbatov believes is unacceptable for a club of United's stature. Scholes, who also played for United and England, stated that he did not believe the team went to Villa Park with the intention of winning the game. He acknowledged that it was a tough away game, especially after their midweek fixture, and that Villa had a boost after their win against Bayern Munich.
Scholes also pointed out that three of United's high-profile summer signings, Manuel Ugarte, Matthijs de Ligt, and Zirkzee, were left on the bench, which he believes reflects the club's directionless recruitment. He questioned the quality of the team's forwards, stating that in the past, United had players who could score 80 goals a season, but that is not the case currently.
The former midfielder also criticized Ten Hag's decision not to play Ugarte and De Ligt, who were brought in to improve the team's midfield and defense, respectively. Instead, he observed that 36-year-old Jonny Evans was preferred over De Ligt, and that Ten Hag's own signing, Lisandro Martinez, did not make an appearance while Jonny Evans and Victor Lindelof were brought on as substitutes.
Scholes believes that the lack of a clear playing style under Ten Hag has made it difficult for the club to identify and recruit players. He compared it to Liverpool's situation, where their clear 4-3-3 playing style made it easier to bring in players who fit their system. In contrast, he believes United is struggling to find players who fit their ever-changing style.
In conclusion, Scholes expressed his disappointment with United's performance and recruitment, emphasizing the need for the club to have a clear playing style in order to make successful signings.
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