Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has delivered a scathing critique of the club’s current trajectory under manager Ruben Amorim, following United’s crushing 3-0 defeat to Manchester City in the latest Premier League derby.
Speaking on The Wayne Rooney Show, the former captain and all-time top scorer expressed deep concern over the lack of visible progress since Amorim’s appointment nearly a year ago. “It’s tough to sit here and say we’re seeing progression,” Rooney said. “We’re seeing none of that, and it is very difficult.”
Rooney’s remarks come amid growing unrest among fans, many of whom exited the Etihad Stadium long before the final whistle. Despite a £250 million investment in new signings and a tactical shift to Amorim’s preferred 3-4-3 system, United’s performances have continued to falter. The club finished last season in 15th place with just 42 points — its worst top-flight showing since 1989–90.
Rooney added, “If the manager is honest with himself, it has got worse. What are the patterns? What are we seeing that might improve the team moving forward?”
Amorim, who replaced Erik ten Hag on November 1, remains committed to his tactical philosophy, insisting in a post-match press conference that he will not deviate from his system. However, critics — including fellow United icon Roy Keane — have questioned whether the Portuguese coach can reverse the club’s decline.