Manchester United’s season hit another low as Fulham ended their FA Cup run. Gary Lineker did not hold back, blaming Sir Alex Ferguson for the club’s current struggles.
His comments echo a growing sentiment among United supporters.
Lineker backed Wayne Rooney’s harsh criticism of Ferguson’s legacy. Rooney once warned that Ferguson left behind a club in disarray. His words have stirred strong reactions among fans and pundits alike.
United crashed out in the fifth round against Fulham while defending their title. This defeat marks the latest setback under Ruben Amorim’s management. Now, the Europa League stands as the only trophy within reach for the Red Devils.
Ruben Amorim is the sixth full-time manager at United since Ferguson’s retirement in 2013. Previous caretakers include Ryan Giggs, Michael Carrick, Ralf Rangnick, and Ruud van Nistelrooy. The shadow of Ferguson’s era still looms large at Old Trafford.
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Eighteen months before Amorim’s appointment, Wayne Rooney blamed Ferguson for leaving United in a poor state. In February 2022, Rooney recalled a lucrative contract offer of £200,000 a week from Ferguson. However, he chose to pursue on-field success over personal gain.
Rooney recalled a telling moment in Ferguson’s office. He said, “What’s the plan here? At the minute, we’ve brought in two young English players who are unproven.” Ferguson snapped back, “Get out of my office.” This exchange underlines the friction that still resonates.
Gary Lineker compared United’s situation to that of Liverpool. He pointed out that Jurgen Klopp left Liverpool in a much stronger position, a legacy now carried by new manager Arne Slot. Lineker argued that even though United won the league in Ferguson’s final season, their squad was aging and their academy was no longer producing top talent.
United now faces a crucial crossroads. The candid criticisms from both Lineker and Rooney serve as a stark wake-up call. The club must overhaul its structure and strategy if it hopes to reclaim its former glory on the pitch.
