Gary Neville launched a scathing attack on Ruben Amorim's tactical approach during Manchester United's match against Tottenham on Sunday, labelling the midfield setup as "embarrassing."
The former United defender, commentating for Sky Sports, was particularly critical of the positioning instructions given to midfielders Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro.
The criticism came as both teams faced challenging circumstances, with squads depleted by injuries and illness.
Neville's strongest objections focused on what he described as "absolute madness" in the midfield structure, particularly after James Maddison had given Spurs the lead in the 13th minute.
Gary Neville launched a scathing attack on Ruben Amorim's tactical approach during Manchester United's match against Tottenham on Sunday, labelling the midfield setup as "embarrassing."
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The Sky Sports pundit highlighted how Bruno Fernandes was frequently drifting to the right wing, leaving Casemiro isolated in central midfield with an overwhelming amount of space to cover.
"The distance between the two central midfield players, see where Casemiro is and where Bruno Fernandes is, that cannot be right. It breaks all rules in football. Absolute madness," Neville said during commentary.
He emphasised that this positioning was not accidental but rather a deliberate tactical choice.
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Gary Neville hit out at the tactical deployment of Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro in Man Utd's clash with Tottenham
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"That's a tactic, they've been asked to do that, Bruno's been asked to come out to this side and it isn't right," the former United defender explained.
Neville's criticism grew increasingly harsh as he observed the tactical setup, suggesting it fell below even youth football standards.
"Bruno Fernandes is playing right wing, the two of them in midfield are split, it's embarrassing. You wouldn't see this in Under-9s or Under-10s football," he stated.
"United may win today and may score goals but I have to say that the structure of the team is awful."
His concerns centred particularly on the significant gaps appearing in midfield between Fernandes and Casemiro, which he viewed as tactically unsound.
In response to the tactical criticism, Amorim's pre-match comments revealed his focus on motivation rather than specific tactical details.
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Speaking to Sky Sports before the match, Amorim emphasised the importance of representing Manchester United.
"Explaining the job and reminding them that they are playing for Manchester United, which is a good thing. It is a very good moment in their lives. No matter the moment of our club," he said.
Man Utd boss Ruben Amorim is without a host of big players for today's Premier League clash with Tottenham
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The manager stressed his willingness to take responsibility for the team's performance.
"Whatever happens in the end is my responsibility. So they have to enjoy the game," Amorim added.
