Manchester United's turbulent season has plunged into further chaos, with club legend Roy Keane launching a scathing attack on the team's dismal away record and the club's much-publicised pursuit of Sporting Lisbon manager Ruben Amorim collapsing in spectacular fashion.
The Red Devils' hopes of appointing the highly-rated Portuguese coach as a potential successor to Erik ten Hag were dashed after Amorim publicly apologised to his current club for holding talks with West Ham United, a move that has seemingly ended any interest from the Old Trafford hierarchy.
Keane's Furious Verdict on United's Travelling Woes
Amid the off-pitch drama, former captain Roy Keane did not hold back in his assessment of the current squad's mentality on the road. The iconic Irish midfielder, known for his no-nonsense punditry, branded the team's performances away from Old Trafford as "shambolic" and indicative of a deeper cultural problem within the club.
"When you pull on that United shirt, you're representing a global institution, not just on your home patch," Keane fumed. "The lack of fight, the sheer lack of pride in some of these away performances is a disgrace. It's a recurring theme, and it points to a softness that has crept in. These players need to have a long, hard look at themselves."
Amorim Deal Falls Apart in Embarrassing Fashion
The collapse of the Amorim pursuit adds another layer of embarrassment to United's ongoing search for stability. The 39-year-old manager, who led Sporting to a league title in 2021, was considered a top candidate by many fans and pundits.
However, his decision to fly to London for talks with West Ham—a move he later publicly apologised for—has severely damaged his credibility in the eyes of the United board. This public relations misstep has effectively torpedoed any potential move to Manchester, leaving the club's managerial plans in disarray.
Ten Hag's Future Hangs by a Thread
The failed Amorim approach casts a huge shadow over the future of current boss Erik ten Hag. While the Dutchman remains in charge for now, the act of courting another manager is a clear signal that the new INEOS-led hierarchy is actively exploring alternatives.
Ten Hag's position has looked increasingly precarious following a string of poor results, particularly away from home, which have left United languishing outside the Champions League places. With the season reaching its climax, the pressure is immense to secure a top-four finish and deliver a strong performance in the FA Cup final against Manchester City.
For now, the search for a saviour continues, but one thing is certain: the in-tray for whoever is in the dugout next season is overflowing with problems that go far beyond the tactics board.
