Ian Wright and other football pundits have voiced their surprise and criticism over Ruben Amorim’s decision to bench both Amad Diallo and Marcus Rashford during Manchester United’s 2-0 defeat to Arsenal at the Emirates.
Diallo and Rashford, in superb form leading up to the game, were expected to feature prominently, but Amorim opted to leave them out of the starting lineup.
Diallo, fresh from delivering three assists in Amorim’s first two Premier League matches, and Rashford, who scored three goals in the same period, were relegated to the bench. Rashford only came on in the 59th minute, a decision that left Ian Wright stunned.
Speaking on The Overlap, Wright said, “With how Amad has played, I’m shocked he didn’t start. Rashford, with his pace and his record against Arsenal, should’ve been a no-brainer.”
Gary Neville Calls Out Defensive Gamble
Gary Neville joined in the critique, focusing on the inclusion of Tyrell Malacia, who was making his first league appearance in 556 days. “It’s a massive ask for him to face Bukayo Saka after such a long layoff,” Neville commented.
Similarly, Roy Keane questioned the risk, noting, “Sometimes you throw players into big games to see what they can do, but this wasn’t ideal.”
Morrison Rips Into Amorim’s Approach
Clinton Morrison didn’t hold back, accusing Amorim of approaching the match like “a video game.” Speaking on Sky Sports, Morrison said, “Leaving Rashford out made no sense.
His pace could’ve troubled Arsenal’s defense on the counter. Instead, Amorim set up a defensive team that handed Arsenal control from the start.”
The defeat leaves Manchester United grappling with their position in the Premier League table, while questions grow over Amorim’s tactical decisions in key matches.