Matthijs de Ligt has defended Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim following their 3-1 defeat to Brentford, insisting the players must take responsibility for the Red Devils' poor form. With pressure mounting after another early-season setback, the Dutch defender hit back at critics who continue to blame Amorim’s “system” for United’s struggles.
Man Utd can't seem to muster any form
Manchester United suffered their third defeat in six Premier League games after losing 3-1 to Brentford on Saturday. The result leaves Amorim’s side in the bottom half of the table and extends their run without back-to-back league victories. Adding to the lack of league form, the Red Devils also fell to a Carabao Cup loss to League Two side Grimsby Town, further intensifying speculation over the Portuguese manager’s future.
AdvertisementGetty Images SportDe Ligt launces staunch Amorim defence
De Ligt, who has been one of United’s few consistent performers this season, dismissed claims that Amorim’s tactical setup is to blame for the team’s struggles. He told reporters: “Of course, I mean it's always easy to look to the manager, but in the end the players on the pitch have to do it. We can't say the goals we conceded, or the chances we conceded, are because of what… I don't know, you guys always talk about the system. That also has a lot to do with focus, concentration, and, if that's lacking in key moments, it's going to make a difference.”
The centre-back also reflected on United’s inconsistency, saying: “[We are] really disappointed because all week we were speaking about keeping the momentum going, getting another win under our belt. If you lose this game, it's a big blow, obviously. A lot of time it's the same song, but we have to stick together — it’s the most important thing.”
He added: “We lost against City, we won against Chelsea, so for the next game we have to analyse what went wrong in this game because a lot of things went wrong. We were short in key moments where we made the wrong decisions. That makes a big difference in football. We were quite unlucky also with some chances, but overall, it was not good enough. That's a fact.”
Is the dressing room standing behind Amorim?
Amorim’s United have yet to deliver the consistency expected from a top-six side, with only two Premier League wins this season. However, De Ligt’s comments highlight growing frustration among players over external criticism focused solely on tactics. The defender’s defence of his manager suggests the dressing room remains united despite earlier reports claiming that players aren't happy with Amorim's 3-4-3 system.
Getty Images SportSunderland clash this weekend could be crucial
Manchester United face a must-win clash against in-form Sunderland at Old Trafford on Saturday before a daunting trip to league leaders Liverpool after the international break. Amorim will be desperate for his players to back up De Ligt’s words with a response on the pitch. Another poor result could leave the manager’s position under even greater scrutiny.
