Manchester United icon Roy Keane has launched a scathing assessment of the current squad, branding them "softer" and lacking the ruthless mentality that defined his own trophy-laden era at Old Trafford. The former captain's comments come amidst a period of intense scrutiny for manager Erik ten Hag.
The Keane Verdict: A Culture Gone Soft
In a no-holds-barred analysis, Keane pinpointed the core issue plaguing the modern United squad. "I look at the United team now, and I think they are a bit softer, obviously, than what we were," he stated, highlighting a significant shift in the club's infamous winning culture. The Irishman questioned the current players' ability to handle the immense pressure that comes with representing the world's biggest club.
Ferguson's Genius: The Hairdryer and Beyond
Keane offered a fascinating glimpse into the legendary man-management style of Sir Alex Ferguson, describing it as a perfect blend of ferocity and fatherly care. He recalled the infamous "hairdryer" treatment but was quick to emphasise the manager's unparalleled supportive side. "He had that balance. The manager had that in him. He could be the hardest manager in the world, but if you were needing a bit of help, he was your dad," Keane revealed, painting a picture of a leader who knew exactly when to push and when to protect his players.
Neville's Role and the Standards of Old
The discussion also turned to his former teammate Gary Neville, whom Keane identified as the dressing room's natural disciplinarian. He suggested that such a strong, vocal character is conspicuously absent from the current setup, contributing to a drop in standards and accountability on and off the pitch.
A Glimmer of Hope for Ten Hag?
Despite his harsh criticisms, Keane stopped short of outright calling for Ten Hag's dismissal. His analysis suggests the problems run deeper than the dugout, implicating the overall character and resilience within the squad. This perspective shifts the focus from managerial tactics to the fundamental mentality required to succeed at the highest level.
Keane's explosive comments serve as a stark reminder of the Ferguson era's uncompromising standards and have ignited a fresh debate about the true state of Manchester United's rebuild under its current leadership.
