Manchester United's midfield performance against Fulham has drawn criticism, with fans expressing their frustration during Sunday's match. Despite summer investment in central midfield, the team's 'engine room' appeared to struggle, leading to an ominous shift in mood among the away supporters at Craven Cottage.
The match saw United fall behind after a Lisandro Martínez own goal. Although they secured a late equaliser through Matheus Cunha's deflected shot, the team's overall display prompted boos from the away end when manager Michael Carrick substituted Kobbie Mainoo with ten minutes remaining.
Gary Neville, commenting on Sky Sports, highlighted a perceived lack of effort from United players before Fulham's goal. Fulham's Sander Berge and Shea Charles reportedly dominated United's midfield, which included Bruno Fernandes, Mainoo, and Youri Tielemans, a summer signing from Aston Villa. This performance has raised questions about the effectiveness of Carrick's midfield 'renovation'.
United's transfer strategy has also come under scrutiny, with the club reportedly targeting quantity in midfield signings. Andrey Santos joined from Chelsea for £50m but is yet to prove himself, while Tielemans was an opportunistic £35m acquisition. Carrick is reportedly hoping for the return of Carlos Baleba from an ankle injury after the international break to provide more 'oomph' to the team.
Carrick is facing pressure, with United having accumulated five points from five games and already being out of the Carabao Cup. Doubts over his suitability for the job are expected to grow.