Jamie Carragher, speaking on Sky Sports after the 24/11 match at Old Trafford, expressed his bewilderment: "I don't understand why Amorim kept the old system when only facing one striker who often dropped deep because the team was short-handed." He argued that Amorim's rigid adherence to the three-defender setup prevented Manchester United from creating significant pressure, squandering an opportunity to dictate the game. "Amorim will be questioned a lot after this match," Carragher added.

Gary Neville echoed Carragher's sentiments, deeming the decision to maintain a five-man defensive system unacceptable given the team was trailing and had a numerical advantage. The former English defender attributed Manchester United's slow ball progression, lack of players in the penalty area, and absence of creative ideas directly to Amorim's inability to adapt. Neville stated: "This should have been the time for Manchester United to attack fiercely like the Alamo, pass the ball quickly, expand the wings, and crowd the penalty area. But instead, they were too slow and harmless."

Coach Ruben Amorim disappointed during Manchester United's 0-1 loss to Everton at Old Trafford, Manchester, United Kingdom on 24/11. Photo: Man Utd

Manchester United, playing at home yesterday, gained a man advantage in the 13th minute when Everton midfielder Idrissa Gueye received a direct red card for slapping teammate Michael Keane. Despite this, the "Red Devils" failed to control the game. They even conceded a goal in the first half from a long-range strike by Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall.

Throughout the match, Manchester United held 70% possession, registering 23 shots with 6 on target, compared to Everton's 2 shots with one on target. However, their genuine scoring opportunities were few. Notable chances included defender Patrick Dorgu's close-range shot wide in the first half and two headers from striker Joshua Zirkzee late in the second half, both saved by goalkeeper Jordan Pickford.

Neville also criticized the attitude of some Manchester United players, particularly Luke Shaw. He observed that the English defender "walked more than ran" when moving forward to support attacks, diminishing the pace and intensity of Manchester United's offensive plays. Neville labeled the team's performance as "reeking of complacency."

A victory by three goals against Everton would have propelled the "Red Devils" into the top 4 of the Premier League. Instead, they remain in 10th place. "Manchester United were absolutely not good enough. There were moments that were truly shameful," Neville commented. "I felt they walked onto the pitch thinking they were ready to get back into the Champions League race. You can lose a match, but not in that manner. It erodes confidence and belief in both the coach and the team."

Joshua Zirkzee's diagonal header was saved by goalkeeper Jordan Pickford. Photo: AMA

With new signings Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko absent due to injury, Amorim started Joshua Zirkzee, who was making his first start since April. However, Neville dismissed any excuses, stating: "Don't talk about the squad. I don't accept that. Everton played better with 11 men, and with 10 men, they fought even harder."

Carragher concluded that this defeat would prompt fans to question Amorim's game management capabilities, while Neville warned that the loss reset Manchester United's progress. Despite the criticism, both analysts believe Amorim's position is not immediately threatened, but the Portuguese coach must respond quickly to restore confidence in the near future.

Hong Duy (according to Sky Sports)