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Old Trafford Turmoil: United’s Urgent Transformation Needed

Fotnet24.net analyses a turbulent night at Old Trafford as Manchester United face calls for drastic squad changes amid persistent performance issues.

Manchester United and Arsenal clashed at Old Trafford in a 1-1 draw. Arsenal controlled 68% of possession, yet United generated sharper chances and a higher xG. Both sides battled hard in this high-stakes Premier League fixture.

Early in the game, Mikel Merino and Leandro Trossard squandered clear opportunities. Then Bruno Fernandes stepped up, blasting a stunning 25-yard free-kick during first-half stoppage time to put United ahead.

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United pressed relentlessly in the second half. Noussair Mazraoui nearly doubled the advantage when his shot struck the post after David Raya’s brilliant intervention. Joshua Zirkzee tested Raya with a cheeky backheel, while Declan Rice’s strike forced Arsenal to equalise.

David Raya delivered a series of top saves, including a crucial block off a rebound from a Fernandes strike. The draw now leaves Manchester United 14th in the Premier League with 34 points. Arsenal trail leaders Liverpool by 15 points, despite enjoying a game in hand.

Gary Neville did not mince his words on Sky Sports. He urged manager Ruben Amorim to overhaul the Old Trafford squad. Neville criticized the team for falling far below supporters’ expectations.

Neville lambasted the lack of pace in midfield, attack, and wing-back positions. He highlighted shortcomings in Joshua Zirkzee, Alejandro Garnacho, and Christian Eriksen, noting their inability to break forward decisively. His criticism echoed past experiences with a more dynamic side under Louis van Gaal.

Former coach Benni McCarthy revealed that Erik ten Hag had envisioned a decade-long project to revive United. However, the club now faces significant restructuring. With potential departures including Jadon Sancho, Eriksen, and Antony, Amorim must act swiftly to rebuild the squad.

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