Man Utd: Hargreaves slams Amorim decision as ‘five changes’ demanded; trio ‘do not work’ in PL

Ruben Amorim came under heavy fire for leaving Kobbie Mainoo out of the XI as Manchester City routed Man Utd 3-0. Punters may back Mainoo to start the next match and consider wagering on United to struggle offensively or on City to dominate possession; odds for a City win or United failing to score could shorten if tactical doubts persist.

Amorim Criticised After City Rout

Manchester United were dismantled at the Etihad as Phil Foden and Erling Haaland (brace) delivered a 3-0 verdict, leaving fresh questions over Ruben Amorim’s preferred 3-4-3 system. The defeat underlined doubts about whether Amorim’s setup can withstand elite opposition, with large sections of United’s display lacking cohesion and attacking threat.

Mainoo Snub Sparks Backlash

Kobbie Mainoo started on the bench and only entered for the final stages, but his introduction provided the energy and forward impetus United lacked for much of the game. Critics seized on the decision not to start the England midfielder, arguing his dynamic runs and ball-carrying are precisely what United need to disrupt packed defences.

Hargreaves Demands Sweeping Changes

Owen Hargreaves urged a radical overhaul, calling for “five changes” to revive United’s fortunes. He argued that Mainoo must start, that Benjamin Sesko looked unready despite his scoring record in Germany, and that Bruno Fernandes functions better as a No.10 than as a deeper midfield shield. Hargreaves suggested deploying players more aggressively to give United a fighting chance.

Tactical Concerns: Flanks and Front Line

Pundits also highlighted chronic issues down the flanks and a lack of service for the front man. Observers noted that wingback choices failed to create meaningful threats, leaving forwards isolated. There were calls to rethink personnel and roles so United can generate width, deliver quality balls into the box and demand more from their striker.

What This Means for Punters

For bettors, the fallout could influence short-term markets: bets on Mainoo to start next fixture may attract interest and see shortened odds, while markets on United failing to score or City dominating possession could move in response to perceived tactical frailty. Longer-term markets such as Amorim’s job security or United’s top-four prospects may also be affected if performances don’t improve.

Verdict

Sunday’s scoreline left United facing urgent selection and tactical questions. With fans and pundits clamouring for changes, the next fixtures will be a key indicator of whether Amorim adapts his approach or doubles down on the system that has come under fire.

Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim has been blasted for not starting Kobbie Mainoo vs Manchester City, while Owen Hargreaves wants "five changes".

Football365