Manchester United legend Roy Keane expressed his dissatisfaction with the current state of the club, particularly targeting Bruno Fernandes’ leadership and the team’s overall mentality. Keane’s comments came after Fernandes addressed the media, discussing the team’s inconsistency and the criticism they have faced.
Fernandes acknowledged the team’s struggles, emphasizing the need for bravery and consistency. He also praised the fans for their unwavering support despite the team’s poor performances.
Bruno Fernandes said: “We are in this position because we have not been consistent in the performances we put out. We lack being more fearless, being more brave. Today was not the case because we ended up conceding goals by trying to be brave. It’s easy to criticise because this club has never suffered like this, so it’s normal. You have to be aware you play for United and criticism will be there. Our fans have been there all season during bad moments, today they were there at the end trying to cheer us up. It is time we give something back.”
Fernandes also mentioned his tendency to lose his temper with teammates, attributing it to his belief in their potential. However, Keane was not convinced by Fernandes’ remarks, labeling them as mere “sound bites.”
Roy Keane said: “It is not easy and, to be fair to Bruno, he does front up and the club push him out because he is the best player and captain. To me, it is just sound bites from him now. Let’s hope they win on Thursday by the way – that’s all they are talking about. Lyon are sixth in the French league, I fully expect United to beat Lyon. He is talking about players and his belief in them – what about his right-back who didn’t put a foot in (for the second goal)? I hope he is pulling (Diogo) Dalot in the dressing room. Whether that’s out on the pitch, in the dressing room or on the training ground.”
Keane went on to question Fernandes’ leadership qualities and criticized the team’s attitude towards matches, suggesting that they lack the mentality required to play for Manchester United.
Roy Keane continued: “I listen to Bruno Fernandes, an amazing player but I still have question marks about his leadership. When you are playing for Man United, you need a helping hand. But when he is doing the chat about the supporters, to me it’s just… sound bites. There is no meaning to it. I don’t know how we can listen to the United players doing interviews anymore because I am not sure they are an honest group. The mindset playing for Manchester United should be that every game is a big game. So today wasn’t a big game – that’s the attitude of some of them – but Thursday is a big game. Their whole attitude should be – every game is a big game and you give your all.”
Keane’s harsh critique reflects the frustration of many Manchester United fans who expect more from their team. As the club prepares for their upcoming match against Lyon, the pressure is on Fernandes and his teammates to deliver a performance that matches the club’s storied history.
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