
Roy Keane delivered a blistering critique of Manchester United’s lackluster performance in their 1-1 draw against Ipswich Town, highlighting their failure to sustain an early advantage and their overly defensive approach after taking the lead. Speaking on Sky Sports, Keane expressed frustration with United’s passivity, suggesting they squandered a golden opportunity to begin Rúben Amorim’s managerial tenure on a high note.
United started brightly at Portman Road, with Marcus Rashford scoring just two minutes into the game. The goal, created by a precise cross from Amad Diallo, seemed to signal a strong start for Amorim. However, the momentum quickly shifted as Ipswich grew into the match. A superb save from Andre Onana denied Liam Delap, but Ipswich’s pressure paid off when Omari Hutchinson equalized with a deflected strike just before halftime.
Keane praised the early goal but didn’t shy away from criticizing United’s lack of follow-through.
“It was a brilliant start—exactly what you’d want in the first minute,” Keane remarked. “Rashford gets the goal, though I’m not sure he connects properly, and there are questions about the Ipswich goalkeeper. But this is what you expect from proactive wing-back play—a positive way to start the game.”
However, Keane’s tone turned critical as he analyzed United’s performance after the opening goal.
“After that, what did they do? Nothing. Ipswich deserved their equalizer,” he said. “United had the perfect start, but then they just sat back. I’m watching and thinking, what are you waiting for? Go after Ipswich, put them under pressure. Instead, they retreated and invited Ipswich onto them, giving them all the encouragement they needed.”
Keane’s assessment highlighted a recurring issue for United: a lack of consistency and conviction to dominate matches. While Amorim’s tenure is still in its infancy, Keane’s comments serve as a reminder of the high standards and expectations surrounding a club looking to recapture its former glory.
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