Manchester United’s 4-1 loss to Newcastle on Sunday has triggered another round of criticism, with former captain Roy Keane accusing Bruno Fernandes and his team of being “bluffers.”
This crushing defeat, which saw United hit a new low in their Premier League campaign, has only intensified the frustration surrounding the team’s performance.
Keane Slams United’s Weaknesses
Keane didn’t hold back when reflecting on the result, calling out the lack of leadership and accountability within the squad.
Speaking on Sky Sports, Keane was particularly critical of Fernandes, saying, “Bruno does front up but it’s kind of just soundbites now.
There’s no meaning to it.” According to Keane, Fernandes’ repeated talk about having belief in his team was just empty words.
“Good teammates put demands on each other, but these aren’t teammates, they are bluffers,” he added, casting doubt on the sincerity of the team’s efforts.
Keane further expressed concern about United’s overall weakness, both physically and mentally. “Newcastle were outstanding, but United are now a weak team,” he said.
Keane also hinted that coaches like Ruben Amorim would be baffled by the state of Manchester United, considering their drop in form.
A Season of Disappointment for Manchester United
The loss at St James’ Park marked United’s 14th Premier League defeat of the season, tying their record for most losses in a single campaign.
Goals from Sandro Tonali, Alejandro Garnacho, Harvey Barnes, and Bruno Guimaraes sealed a comfortable win for Newcastle, exposing United’s vulnerabilities.
Although the team had shown signs of improvement in recent weeks, this heavy defeat has knocked their confidence and raised questions about their ability to finish the season on a high.
With the Europa League quarter-final against Lyon looming, Fernandes, who was visibly frustrated during the game, urged his teammates to focus on what’s ahead.
Bruno Fernandes Calls for Immediate Focus on Europa League Clash
In the aftermath of the defeat, Fernandes addressed the media, acknowledging the harsh criticism Manchester United has faced.
“When you play for Manchester United, you know the criticism will be there,” he said.
However, he remained focused on the upcoming Europa League match, which he described as crucial for their season. “Thursday is big to get into the semi-final.
We’re going to play at home, and our fans will be there for us,” he stated, trying to rally the squad for what could be their last shot at success this season.
Fernandes went on to express his belief in the potential of his teammates, despite the frustration.
“I know we’re much better than we have been.
My teammates, I only get frustrated because I know how good they are,” he said.
He assured fans that the team was determined to turn things around and deliver a strong performance on Thursday.
Europa League Is United’s Last Chance for Champions League Qualification
With their Premier League hopes all but dashed, United’s focus now shifts to the Europa League, where winning the competition is their only realistic chance of securing a spot in next season’s Champions League.
The clash with Lyon on Thursday has become a make-or-break moment for both Fernandes and his team, who need to deliver in front of their home crowd to keep their European dreams alive.