Manchester United’s season has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows, marked by inconsistent performances and growing concerns within the dressing room. Following a series of disappointing results, the pressure on manager Ruben Amorim has intensified. Yet, the team has also showcased moments of promise, including a significant 2-1 victory over Liverpool. As December approaches, a pivotal month in English football, United’s focus shifts to maximizing their performance in the Premier League and the upcoming FA Cup third round.
Inconsistent results have been a common theme for United this season. After beginning with just two victories in their first six league matches, the team rallied with a three-game winning streak, culminating in an impressive away triumph against Liverpool. However, this momentum quickly dissipated, leading to a 1-0 home defeat against Everton, a match where the visitors played with only ten men for a significant portion. Following a morale-boosting win against Crystal Palace, the unpredictable nature of their results has raised questions about the team’s internal dynamics.
Former Tottenham Hotspur and Portugal midfielder Pedro Mendes weighed in on the situation, expressing concerns about the uncertainty within the United dressing room. In an interview with BoyleSports, Mendes stated, “Manchester United will get back into the Champions League, but they are difficult to understand. How can you go for three, four wins in a row, playing really well, and then lose at home against Everton? You know, it’s just another setback.”
Mendes highlighted the fragility of team morale, noting that just as confidence appeared to build, setbacks occur. He emphasized that while United possesses the talent to secure a top-five finish and a Champions League spot for next season, the inconsistency poses a significant barrier.
The role of team captain Bruno Fernandes has also come under scrutiny. Traditionally an attacking midfielder, Fernandes has adapted to a deeper role under Amorim’s strategy, with players like Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha, and Mason Mount positioned ahead of him. Since joining United, Fernandes has scored 100 goals in 304 appearances. However, his scoring rate has dipped this season, with only two league goals in 13 matches.
Mendes believes that Fernandes yearns for a return to a more advanced position, suggesting that Amorim needs to adjust his tactics to leverage Fernandes’ strengths effectively. “When Ruben Amorim was at Sporting, he had players like Morten Hjulmand and Manuel Ugarte in midfield,” Mendes explained. “I think at Manchester United, you have Casemiro and Ugarte, but you need someone different, and Bruno can give that to the team. For sure, Bruno would love to play more upfront to score more goals.”
As the squad navigates these challenges, the next few weeks will be crucial for Manchester United. With December’s fixture congestion looming and only two competitions on their agenda, the team’s ability to stabilize performance and foster a cohesive environment will be vital for their aspirations this season. The uncertainty within the dressing room highlights the need for effective communication and strategic adjustments as they strive to regain their footing in the Premier League.
