Gary Neville recently voiced sharp concerns about the core of Manchester United, arguing that experienced players aren't delivering the consistent strength expected of them. He believes a team’s foundation – its spine – is absolutely critical for success, recalling the unwavering reliability of his own United days.
Neville vividly remembers the bedrock upon which Sir Alex Ferguson built his dynasty: Schmeichel, Bruce, Pallister, Keane, and Cantona. This formidable group provided a protective shield, allowing other players to flourish knowing they had an unshakeable center to the team.
He specifically questioned the performances of Harry Maguire and Matthijs de Ligt, both seasoned professionals with extensive careers. Despite their wealth of experience – De Ligt having excelled at the highest levels and Maguire being a regular for England – Neville feels they are underperforming.
While acknowledging the experience of Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes in midfield, and a relative lack of it up front, Neville pinpointed the central pairing of Fernandes, Casemiro, Maguire, and De Ligt as the key area needing improvement. He believes this quartet, despite their age and pedigree, isn’t adequately stabilizing the team.
Neville contrasted United’s situation with Liverpool, highlighting their own robust spine. He pointed to Alisson, Van Dijk, Mac Allister, and Gravenberch as examples of players consistently delivering a strong, dependable presence in key positions.
The core issue, according to Neville, isn’t necessarily a lack of talent, but a failure to consistently provide the leadership and stability a team needs to truly contend. He suggests that a stronger, more reliable spine is essential for Manchester United to rediscover its winning formula.
