De Ligt Questions Amorim After Manchester United’s Everton Loss

Matthijs de Ligt Criticizes Manchester United Tactics in Everton Defeat

Manchester United’s damaging 1-0 loss to a 10-man Everton side has ignited questions about manager Ruben Amorim’s tactical approach, with Dutch defender Matthijs de Ligt leading the critique after a disappointing night at Old Trafford.

Manchester United’s Tactical Choices Under Scrutiny

Manchester United entered their Premier League clash against Everton aiming to extend a five-match unbeaten streak. However, the game quickly descended into frustration for the Red Devils. Everton’s Idrissa Gueye was sent off after just 10 minutes for a bizarre altercation with teammate Michael Keane, reducing the visitors to ten men for over 80 minutes. Further compounding Everton’s woes, captain Seamus Coleman left the pitch early with an injury. Despite the numerical advantage, United failed to make it count.

Everton’s resilience was rewarded when Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall put the Toffees ahead on the half-hour mark. From there, Manchester United’s approach became one-dimensional. Rather than exploiting space or making dynamic runs, Amorim’s side relied on a barrage of crosses and set-pieces, attempting 38 crosses and winning nine corners. Everton’s tall defenders stood firm, comfortably repelling United’s aerial threats throughout the match.

De Ligt Laments United’s Lack of Urgency

After the final whistle, Matthijs de Ligt did not hide his frustration. In a candid interview, he remarked, “It’s quite clear—a bad night for us. Against 10 men, we didn’t do enough. We didn’t make the runs or get bodies into the box. They’re strong in the air, and we didn’t have the players to score that way. We basically played to their strengths.” De Ligt emphasized the squad’s lack of urgency and hunger to seize decisive moments, underscoring that such shortcomings were brutally punished against Everton.

Amorim Accepts Responsibility, Warns of Tough Road Ahead

Ruben Amorim, speaking to reporters, admitted Manchester United “deserved to lose,” citing the team’s lack of intensity and execution. “We didn’t play well. We didn’t play with the right intensity. We’re not close to where we should be to fight for the top positions,” Amorim confessed, drawing parallels to the struggles of last season. He called for unity and hard work in training as United prepare for their upcoming fixtures.

Impact on Manchester United’s Season Ambitions

The defeat saw Manchester United’s position plummet to 10th in the table, now trailing league leaders Arsenal by 11 points. This loss, especially given their numerical superiority for most of the match, raises tough questions about the team’s tactical flexibility and mental resilience. Had United capitalized on their rivals’ dropped points, they could have climbed into the top five. Instead, they now face an uphill battle in the race for a Champions League spot.

Big Test Looms at Selhurst Park

Next, Manchester United travel to face an in-form Crystal Palace side at Selhurst Park. With pressure mounting, Amorim and his players cannot afford further slip-ups if they harbor hopes of salvaging their season.

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Opinion: Urgency and Adaptability Needed Now More Than Ever

Manchester United’s defeat to a depleted Everton side highlights the urgent need for tactical flexibility and sharper execution in key moments. Relying on predictable patterns, especially against well-organized defenses, will continue to undermine their ambitions. Amorim must instill greater urgency and creativity in the squad if United are to turn their fortunes this season.