Manchester United’s recent preseason display against Leeds United has left fans and pundits deeply concerned — and former midfielder turned analyst Paul Scholars isn’t holding back. He delivered a scathing assessment after watching United stumble through a match that should have showcased their readiness for the upcoming campaign.
According to Scholars, what he witnessed was far from encouraging. He stated bluntly that several players don’t look anywhere near prepared for the new season, going as far as saying things might only spiral further if nothing changes. His remarks, made during a post-match discussion, have since exploded across football media.
The friendly, meant to build momentum and team cohesion, ended up highlighting major flaws. United’s lack of urgency, structure, and chemistry — especially in midfield — was evident throughout the game. Scholars expressed disappointment over what appeared to be a squad still mentally on vacation, not one gearing up for a challenging Premier League season.
Though he didn’t single out names, fans and analysts were quick to point fingers at familiar faces. Defenders and midfielders, in particular, were criticized for their sluggish play and disjointed positioning. A major defensive lapse nearly led to a Leeds goal, exposing cracks in communication and coordination at the back. On the attacking front, even the most promising young players struggled to create anything meaningful, while the experienced ones seemed off-form and disconnected.
Scholars emphasized that there was no imagination in the attack and little creativity in the midfield. The ball moved aimlessly from side to side, with no real intent or bite — a worrying sign for a team that’s supposed to be competing at the highest level. He warned that such performances betray the standards expected at a club of Manchester United’s stature.
Supporters didn’t disagree. Many echoed his sentiments online, pointing out that preseason isn’t about winning, but about showing hunger and progress. What they saw instead was a team lacking sharpness, cohesion, and fight — with many already dreading how they’ll cope against stronger opponents like Manchester City or Arsenal if things don’t change fast.
With a few preseason games remaining, the pressure is now on manager Ruben Amorim and his staff. They must urgently assess who’s fit to compete and who should be moved on before the transfer window closes. Tactical clarity, fitness levels, and player motivation all need addressing. Scholars’ stark message couldn’t have been clearer: unless the attitude shifts and improvements are made immediately, United are in for a very long season.
