Micah Richards believes that Manchester United has the potential to succeed under their incoming manager, Ruben Amorim, but stresses that several major issues need to be fixed for the team to make meaningful progress.
The former player turned pundit explained that one of United’s biggest struggles is the disconnection between defense, midfield, and attack—an issue that has haunted the team since last season. He shared his thoughts on a solution that could help get the best out of playmaker Bruno Fernandes.
The recent 1-1 draw with Chelsea left United frustrated with missed opportunities, and Richards pointed out that a lot of work awaits Amorim when he takes over on November 11, replacing Erik ten Hag.
Other experts have also weighed in. Mail Sport’s Oliver Holt criticized United’s performance, saying the team lacks “identity and soul.” Meanwhile, Roy Keane found the game “boring” and the squad “average,” both clear indications that changes are needed.
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On his podcast, The Rest Is Football, Richards shared his observations, focusing on the lack of cohesion in United’s setup. He noted, “There’s such a disconnect between the midfield and (Rasmus) Hojlund up front. It’s so clear to see.”
Richards explained that Hojlund, the striker, often stays high up to act as a target man, but the midfield doesn’t offer him enough support. “He tries to hold up the ball, but there’s nobody around him,” Richards pointed out. “Their main strategy seems to be sending it wide to Rashford or Garnacho and hoping for the best.”
He also mentioned that Bruno Fernandes, United’s playmaker, starts too far forward to truly control the game. “Fernandes needs to start a bit further back to get involved in the play before moving up,” said Richards. This disconnect between Fernandes and the team impacts United’s ability to create meaningful build-up play.
After Erik ten Hag’s exit, Ruud van Nistelrooy took over as interim manager and led United to a solid 5-2 victory against Leicester City in the Carabao Cup. While the Chelsea draw wasn’t terrible, United’s league standing is disappointing—they’re currently 13th in the Premier League and only 21st in the Europa League.
Reflecting on their recent form, Richards mentioned that he expected slightly better from the team with Van Nistelrooy’s arrival, but said, “The new manager has a huge task ahead. The talent is there, but there’s a lot to fix.”
Richards pointed out that United has invested in talented players, from Pogba and Maguire to recent arrivals like Hojlund and Fernandes. “They’re bringing in the right players, but the problem lies in how they’re being used in the system.”
Richards believes that Amorim’s preference for a three-at-the-back formation might be beneficial, helping United dominate midfield and control the ball better. He hopes this approach will bring more structure and stability to the team’s gameplay.
Critiquing United’s overall approach, Richards noted that players often seem uncertain of their roles. “One week Rashford’s a striker, the next he’s a winger. Fernandes is sometimes deep, sometimes at number 10. It’s just unclear.”
He also mentioned that players like Lisandro Martinez, Dalot, and even keeper Onana seem to be struggling with their roles in this system. “Onana, for example, wants to play out from the back, like he did at Inter, but there are times he’s not getting the support from his defenders.”
Overall, Richards sees potential in United’s squad but feels that Amorim has a tough job ahead. He hopes the team can show more of what they’re capable of under a clearer system and believes a few more signings could give them the boost they need.
In Richards’ view, the talent is already present at United, but a cohesive strategy is crucial if they’re going to take the team to the next level and restore their identity on the field.
