Manchester United’s coach Ruben Amorim has named ONE United’s player who really got him angry against Southampton.
Manchester United secured a hard-fought 3-1 victory over Southampton, thanks to a sensational 12-minute hat-trick by Amad Diallo. However, the win was overshadowed by manager Ruben Amorim’s post-match criticism of certain players’ performances, reflecting his dissatisfaction despite the positive result.
The first half was marked by Manchester United’s struggles to find their rhythm. Southampton took advantage of a disjointed midfield to claim the lead just before halftime through an own goal by Manuel Ugarte. United’s midfield, usually a source of strength, appeared out of sync, with Kobbie Mainoo particularly struggling to link defense and attack effectively. This disrupted the team’s flow, forcing Amorim to make a decisive substitution at halftime, replacing Mainoo with Antony. The decision raised eyebrows, especially considering the young midfielder’s potential and ongoing transfer interest from clubs like Chelsea and Bayern Munich.
After the match, Amorim made no effort to hide his frustration. While he avoided naming names, his comments clearly alluded to Mainoo. He criticized the lack of speed and control in pressing, which allowed Southampton to exploit gaps and create opportunities. According to Amorim, the issue wasn’t effort but the inability to execute tactical demands with precision, something he expects from players at a club of Manchester United’s stature.
Amad Diallo’s brilliance in the second half shifted the narrative on the pitch. His header leveled the score, followed by a powerful strike from outside the box to give United the lead. Diallo completed his hat-trick with a composed finish in stoppage time, securing the win and showcasing his growing importance to the team.
Despite the victory, Amorim’s reaction highlighted the challenges of building a cohesive unit capable of consistently executing his tactical vision. His halftime substitution of Mainoo underscored his commitment to accountability and high standards, even for promising young talents. The midfield’s struggles to press effectively and maintain control remain a concern, as United aims to compete on multiple fronts this season.
While the three points are valuable, the match serves as a reminder of the work required to align the team with Amorim’s expectations. For Mainoo, it’s an opportunity to respond positively to this setback, especially as his performances draw attention from top European clubs. On the other hand, Diallo’s match-winning display provides hope for the future, highlighting the potential within the squad when things come together. As the season progresses, consistency and discipline will be key to ensuring success for Manchester United.
