Manchester United Revival Questioned After Hasselbaink Critique

Manchester United’s recent unbeaten run under Ruben Amorim has come under sharp scrutiny, as former Chelsea striker Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink delivered a blunt assessment of their progress. Despite a noticeable improvement in results, Hasselbaink insists that the Red Devils have not genuinely advanced, igniting debate around the team’s direction.

Manchester United’s Progress Under Ruben Amorim

Manchester United’s journey under Ruben Amorim has been marked by cautious optimism. Since taking charge at Old Trafford, Amorim has overseen a five-match unbeaten streak in the Premier League. Notable victories over Sunderland, Liverpool, and Brighton seemed to signal a genuine turnaround, with supporters hopeful that Amorim’s philosophy was finally bearing fruit.

However, consecutive 2-2 draws against Nottingham Forest and Tottenham have disrupted this momentum. These results have revived lingering concerns about United’s consistency and resilience, raising questions about whether the club has truly moved forward.

Hasselbaink’s Brutal Assessment of Manchester United’s Resurgence

Speaking on Sky Sports News, Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink did not mince words about Manchester United’s state under Amorim. “I don’t think they have improved, I’m sorry,” Hasselbaink stated. “Where, where have they improved? They have not scored more goals, they have not had less goals against, they have not won any trophies.”

He further pointed out the lack of significant achievements, referencing United’s Europa League final loss to Tottenham and a lack of creativity compared to their historical standards. Hasselbaink’s comments highlight the high expectations at Old Trafford and the belief that the current squad, despite heavy investment, has yet to reach the level demanded by their status.

Manchester United’s Transfer Spend and Recent History

United’s ambition is clear in their recent transfer activity. The club invested over £200 million last summer on fresh talent, including Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, Benjamin Sesko, and goalkeeper Senne Lammens. These signings aimed to erase the disappointment of a disastrous 2024/25 campaign, where United finished 15th in the Premier League with their lowest points tally since 1974.

Amorim’s record of 21 wins, 14 draws, and 19 losses in 54 matches may indicate progress for a mid-table side, but for a club of Manchester United’s stature, expectations are much higher. Fans and pundits alike are looking for more than just incremental improvement—they want to see United competing for major honours.

Amorim Defends His Approach Amid United’s Challenges

Despite external criticism, Amorim remains steadfast in his philosophy. Speaking to MUTV, he reflected on the importance of conviction, particularly during challenging periods. “When you are under pressure, you learn who you are as a manager. I have stayed true to my ideas even when results haven’t gone our way,” Amorim said.

The mood inside Old Trafford and at Carrington has reportedly improved, with the club’s recruitment now more aligned with a long-term vision. The INEOS ownership group continues to back Amorim, hoping that stability and belief will eventually bring Manchester United back to European competition.

Red Devils’ Recent Performances Under the Microscope

Saturday’s fixture against Tottenham exposed familiar flaws, as United surrendered a lead and missed out on a chance to climb into the top four. Amorim did not shy away from the team’s shortcomings, admitting post-match that they failed to capitalize on their chances and lacked the intensity needed to secure victory.

“We need to look at ourselves, we were not pressing with the same intensity. If we had more bravery, we could have killed the game,” Amorim explained. Nevertheless, he found pride in the team’s resilience, framing this phase as the early stages of building a stronger side.

What’s Next for Manchester United?

Manchester United will return to Premier League action at Old Trafford against Everton after the international break, followed by a testing away trip to Crystal Palace. These fixtures offer fresh opportunities for Amorim to prove his critics wrong and demonstrate that his United can blend resilience with winning football.

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Opinion: United’s Revival Needs Tangible Proof

While Manchester United have stabilized under Ruben Amorim, Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink’s critique is a timely reminder that improvement at a club of this magnitude is measured not just by unbeaten runs, but by trophy wins, consistent performances, and attacking identity. The foundations may be stronger, but United must transform potential into concrete success if they are to silence doubters and reclaim their place among football’s elite.