Former Super Eagles captain Mikel Obi has launched a scathing critique of Manchester United players following their dismal 2-0 defeat to Newcastle United at Old Trafford on Monday night.
The loss marked United’s fourth consecutive defeat in all competitions, as Newcastle took control of the game from the outset. Alexander Isak opened the scoring just four minutes in, and Joelinton doubled the Magpies’ lead in the 19th minute.
Despite creating numerous chances, Eddie Howe’s side missed opportunities to extend their advantage, while Manchester United delivered a chaotic and uninspired first-half performance.
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Reacting to the result, Chelsea legend Mikel Obi didn’t hold back in his assessment of the Red Devils. Speaking on the Obi One podcast, Mikel criticized the players’ lack of quality and accountability, while exonerating their new manager, Ruben Amorim.
“Even if you’re not a United fan, it’s awful to watch them. They’re horrendous. Newcastle could’ve been 3-0 up in 20 minutes. It was a disaster,” Mikel said.
“Listen, it’s not the manager’s fault at all. Ruben Amorim is a fantastic and brilliant young manager. The problem is the players. I’m sorry, but they are nowhere near good enough to be playing for Manchester United.”
Ruben Amorim, who took over in November 2024, has endured a rocky start to his tenure at Old Trafford, with the team losing five of their last ten games across all competitions. This stretch includes one of the worst records for any Manchester United manager in recent history.
It’s awful to watch.
Mikel Obi hopes Casemiro and Eriksen never combine in midfield again. pic.twitter.com/gegEXAIANn
— @𝗼𝗻𝗲𝗷𝗼𝗯𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗯𝗼𝘆 (@OneJoblessBoy) January 3, 2025
Speculation is rife that the club could see a mass exodus of players in the coming months, as fans grow increasingly restless. Many are now looking to the January transfer window for reinforcements and hoping for a dramatic turnaround in fortunes.
