Manchester United, a club once synonymous with success, has faced significant struggles in recent years. Despite its storied history and talented squad, recent performances have been disappointing, prompting scrutiny from football analysts worldwide.
One of the most outspoken critics has been former manager José Mourinho. During his time at Old Trafford, he repeatedly stressed the need for structural reforms, warning that without them, even a club of United’s stature would struggle to regain its dominance. His concerns went beyond tactics, highlighting deeper issues within the club’s overall strategy and infrastructure.
Recent evaluations have reinforced Mourinho’s perspective, particularly regarding financial mismanagement. Between 2021 and 2024, the club reported losses surpassing £300 million, largely due to declining broadcast revenue tied to poor performances and flawed recruitment strategies. United’s tendency to spend heavily on marquee signings without a clear long-term plan has contributed to both on-field struggles and financial instability.
On the tactical front, current manager Ruben Amorim’s preferred 3-4-3 system has encountered difficulties. While players like Bruno Fernandes possess individual brilliance, they have struggled to adapt to this setup, leading to inconsistent performances. Additionally, the lack of natural wing-backs and specialist central midfielders has compounded these tactical challenges.
Injuries have also plagued the squad, with only seven players remaining fit throughout the season. In response, the club has turned to predictive algorithms to anticipate and mitigate injuries, highlighting its reactive approach to problem-solving rather than addressing core issues.
The frustration surrounding the club has led to criticism from former players, with Gary Neville notably describing the current management as an “absolute s***fest,” underscoring the turmoil both on and off the pitch.
Ultimately, Manchester United’s biggest issue lies in its failure to adopt a cohesive, modernized strategy. The club’s resistance to change has left it trailing behind its rivals. Mourinho’s past warnings about structural reforms are more relevant than ever. To reclaim their status at the top of English football, United must undergo a major overhaul, fixing both their tactical approach and off-field operations. Only through strategic innovation and decisive action can they hope to return to the Premier League summit.
