Manchester United’s nightmare start to the season has drawn criticism, and one of the strongest reactions has come from Chelsea legend and Super Eagles great John Obi Mikel, Footynaija.com reports.
The former midfielder, who lifted the Premier League and Champions League during his time at Stamford Bridge, has warned that United’s squad is nowhere near good enough to compete.
The Red Devils are already out of the EFL Cup after a shock penalty shootout defeat to League Two side Grimsby Town, while their Premier League form has left fans frustrated.
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Pressure continues to mount on Rúben Amorim, who has managed just 34 points from his first 33 games in charge. United also missed out on Champions League football this season after losing the Europa League final to Tottenham back in May.
It has been a difficult stretch at Old Trafford, with rumours of unhappy players, financial concerns under Profitability and Sustainability Rules, and growing doubts over Amorim’s ability to turn things around.
Even new signings have struggled to settle, while senior players like Harry Maguire and Matthijs de Ligt have been criticised for shaky performances.
What Mikel Obi Said
“I have no idea what is on with Manchester United’s recruitment process; it’s in absolute shambles,” Mikel said via the Obi One Podcast.
“I’ve backed Amorim since he came in; I thought he’s a very good manager. I watched him at Sporting and the way they played was brilliant.”
The 2013 AFCON winner went on to say that the squad quality is far below standard for a team with United’s ambitions.
“But the players at Manchester United are not good enough. Harry Maguire, De Ligt and the others were all over the place against Brentford,” he added.
“Then, you have a Fernandes and a Casemiro as your two holding midfielders. You can’t win the league with those two; you will finish 13th or 14th with players like that. That’s Manchester United’s position right now. They will be languishing at the back of the table.”
Mikel also pointed out the confusion in United’s tactical setup, insisting players are being used in the wrong positions.
“Mbeumo, at some point, was playing right wing-back, while Mason Mount was playing left wing-back. They are all over the place,” the former Chelsea star concluded.
