Manchester United legend Gary Neville has launched a scathing attack on his former club's transfer strategy, branding it "shambolic" and in desperate need of complete overhaul.
The former Red Devils captain and Sky Sports pundit didn't hold back in his assessment of United's recruitment failures, particularly highlighting the bizarre case of Donny van de Beek's £40 million signing from Ajax.
Neville pointed to the Dutch midfielder's troubled time at Old Trafford as symptomatic of deeper problems within the club's hierarchy, questioning who was truly responsible for transfer decisions that have consistently failed to deliver value.
Van de Beek Debacle Exposes United's Flaws
The situation surrounding Van de Beek has become emblematic of United's struggles. Signed for significant money during Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's tenure, the midfielder never established himself as a regular starter and eventually departed on loan before making a permanent move to Girona.
"They signed a player for £40m who didn't play for the manager who was there, didn't play for the next manager, didn't play for the next manager," Neville stated, highlighting the absurdity of the situation.
Structural Changes Needed Urgently
Neville's criticism extends beyond individual transfer mistakes to the very structure of the club's decision-making process. He emphasised that until United establishes a clear and coherent football operation, they will continue to lag behind their rivals.
The arrival of new minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his INEOS group represents what many hope will be the beginning of meaningful change. Neville clearly believes that a complete overhaul of the recruitment department is not just desirable but essential for United to regain their former glory.
With the summer transfer window approaching, all eyes will be on Old Trafford to see if the club can finally address these long-standing issues and build a squad capable of challenging for major honours once again.
