Just hours ago, Manchester United returned for some mid-week domestic action. The English side played their EFL Carabao Cup fixture against fellow Premier League side, Newcastle United. But in an unfortunate turn of events, the Red Devils suffered a shocking 3-0 defeat. As they grapple with the aftermath of the result and heat from the soccer universe, a club icon has raised his fingers at the players and not the manager.
Meanwhile, the troubles for Manchester United continue as one of their star players will be missing the next few games. While already being in and out of an injury crisis, losing more key players would be the last thing that they would have wanted.
Soccer icon questions the intent of the players at Manchester United
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The downfall continues for Manchester United. Last Sunday, the Red Devils faced Erling Haaland’s wrath after getting thrashed 3-0 by their arch-rivals Manchester City. However, things did not get better in their midweek game too, as the club was again forced to walk on fire after suffering an embarrassing heavy defeat against Eddie Howe’s Newcastle United. Unfortunately, the loss prematurely ended their journey in the domestic tournament.
Amidst all the criticism on the internet from the fanbase, Manchester United legend Andy Cole had an eye-opening dose of criticism for the players too. He said, “The players really need to have a good look at themselves now. Once you’ve crossed the line, it’s not about the manager, it’s about the players playing for each other. Some of these players are playing for themselves.”
Andy Cole: "The players really need to have a good look at themselves now. Once you've crossed the line it's not about the manager, it's about the players playing for each other." [sky] #mufc
— The United Stand (@UnitedStandMUFC) November 1, 2023
Interestingly, instead of raising fingers over Erik ten Hag like everyone else, the legendary striker has slammed the stars of the club for their subpar performance. Manchester United couldn’t get going from the very beginning as the Red Devils were 2-0 down in the first half after Miguel Almiron and Lewis Hall opened the account. Joe Willock’s 60th-minute strike sealed an easy victory for Eddie Howe’s side.
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Nevertheless, these were strong words to the players from the revered lethal goal-scoring icon. The most recent loss adds to Manchester United’s growing list of miseries, as they are set to face the absence of their star player in upcoming games.
A Red Devil who just found form is set to miss out
It seems that Manchester United may soon face a goalkeeping challenge. According to reports, Andre Onana has confirmed his participation in the upcoming AFCON, which is scheduled to commence on January 13. Given Cameroon’s progress in the tournament, Onana could be absent for as many as seven club matches, including two FA Cup games, a potential Carabao Cup fixture, and Premier League matches.
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Ex-Fenerbahçe goalkeeper Altay Bayindir would likely replace Onana who has been patiently waiting on the bench for his opportunity. In a bizarre report last week, the club was claimed to be considering the return of David de Gea as an option. From facing one challenge to another, can Manchester United finish in the Top 4 this season?
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