Dutch football legend Marco van Basten has harshly criticized Manchester United’s decision to sign a player he deems “idiotic” in a recent critique of Ruben Amorim
Dutch football great Marco van Basten has delivered a scathing assessment of Manchester United’s latest team selection, directing particular criticism at Ruben Amorim following the club’s 2–1 loss to Aston Villa. The result has only deepened concerns about United’s trajectory, and Van Basten made it clear he believes the problems stem from questionable choices and a lack of coherent planning. Reflecting on the match, the former Netherlands star challenged the logic behind the starting XI and argued that United once again looked ill-prepared in areas that have troubled them repeatedly this season.
Central to Van Basten’s frustration was the decision to start Manuel Ugarte in midfield, a call he described as difficult to understand. In his view, the Uruguayan midfielder struggled to cope with the pace and physicality of the contest, failing to stamp any authority on proceedings. Van Basten felt Ugarte neither shielded the defence effectively nor helped United control possession, leaving gaps that Aston Villa were quick to exploit. The performance, he suggested, highlighted a player who looked uncomfortable with the demands placed on him in such a high-intensity Premier League fixture.
Van Basten’s criticism was not limited to one individual, as he also highlighted broader issues across United’s midfield and defensive structure. He pointed to a lack of unity between the lines, with young defender Leny Yoro among those who endured a testing afternoon. According to the Dutch legend, the disconnect between midfield and defence created spaces that Villa used to their advantage, forcing United onto the back foot for long spells. While there were brief moments where United showed resilience, Van Basten argued that the team as a whole appeared uncertain, poorly organised and short on confidence.
In some of his strongest comments, Van Basten drew parallels between Ugarte’s signing and past recruitment decisions that he feels failed to solve United’s fundamental problems. He warned that the club risks repeating the same errors by investing in players who do not address key weaknesses, rather than building a balanced and functional squad. Without swift changes, he cautioned, United could find themselves slipping into a prolonged struggle that is far removed from the standards historically associated with the club.
Although the defeat at Villa Park was decided by a single goal, it has once again reignited debate about Manchester United’s transfer strategy and tactical direction. Doubts continue to surround whether players are being used in roles that maximise their strengths and whether the club’s leadership is equipping the manager with the right tools to compete at the top level. For Van Basten, the concern goes beyond one result or one selection call, pointing instead to a recurring pattern that stalls progress. With pressure steadily increasing on Amorim and his players, the coming weeks may define whether this setback is a temporary stumble or evidence of deeper issues that demand urgent attention.
