Former Manchester United captain Gary Neville has launched a devastating critique of his old club, identifying what he describes as an "ageing spine" that's preventing the Red Devils from competing at the highest level.
The Sky Sports pundit didn't hold back in his assessment, pointing specifically to the concerning age profile of several key players who form the backbone of Erik ten Hag's side.
The Problematic Core
Neville highlighted the central defensive pairing of Raphael Varane and Jonny Evans, both in their thirties, as emblematic of United's issues. "When you look at the spine of the team," Neville explained, "there are genuine concerns about the age profile and long-term viability."
The analysis becomes even more damning when examining the midfield, where 32-year-old Casemiro continues to play a pivotal role despite showing signs of decline. Neville suggested that relying on veterans in these crucial positions is a short-term solution creating long-term problems.
Recruitment Strategy Under Fire
What makes this situation particularly troubling, according to Neville, is how recent transfer business has contributed to the problem. Rather than building for the future, United have repeatedly opted for experienced players who offer immediate but temporary solutions.
This approach has left the club with an unbalanced squad lacking the youthful energy and long-term development potential that rivals like Arsenal and Manchester City have successfully integrated into their teams.
The Consequences of Short-Term Thinking
The implications extend beyond just this season. Neville warned that this ageing core affects United's ability to implement the high-intensity, pressing football that modern Premier League success demands.
Younger, more dynamic opponents are increasingly exploiting the physical limitations that come with an older squad, leaving United vulnerable against teams they would traditionally expect to dominate.
A Glimmer of Hope?
Despite the bleak assessment, Neville acknowledged that United do possess promising younger talent. However, he stressed that without addressing the fundamental issue of their ageing spine, these players won't have the solid foundation needed to thrive.
The challenge for the club's hierarchy is clear: they must transition from their current reliance on veteran stars to building a younger, more athletic core capable of growing together over several seasons.
Until that transition happens, Neville believes Manchester United will continue to struggle in their quest to return to English football's summit.
