Paul Scholes has highlighted what he sees as Manchester United’s major problem following their loss to Liverpool.
Liverpool controlled the game from start to finish, winning 3-0 with goals from Luis Diaz and Mohamed Salah.
After the defeat, manager Erik ten Hag faced criticism from fans, with speculation about his job security increasing and bookmakers shortening the odds of his dismissal.
On Premier League Productions after the match, former United and England midfielder Scholes pinpointed a significant issue with the current Manchester United team.
He commented, “It was a difficult day, but they need to understand the level they are competing at. United still have much work to do, particularly in midfield. Liverpool completely outperformed them in that area.”
Scholes further noted, “The most glaring observation from my viewpoint was how much fitter and more dynamic Liverpool appeared. Kobbie Mainoo took some time to adjust, Bruno Fernandes seemed off the pace, and Joshua Zirkzee requires more match time as he’s been out for a while.”
“My primary worry is that, despite the season being early, the team already shows signs of not being in peak condition. Are they putting in enough effort behind the scenes to achieve the necessary fitness levels? They didn’t appear sharp enough.”
Scholes also addressed defensive issues, stating, “If a center-back can’t complete a full game, that’s a significant problem. It indicates the team isn’t fit enough from the start. The defense should be able to stay on the field, especially at this stage of the season. While occasional substitutions of full-backs are normal, center-backs should be able to last the entire 90 minutes. United had to make defensive changes in all three of their initial games. How is that acceptable?”
He dismissed the notion that the Euros were a factor, pointing out that other teams, including Liverpool, had players in the tournament but were not experiencing the same issues.
Following the international break, Manchester United will resume Premier League action against newly promoted Southampton.
