Roy Keane delivered a scathing critique of Manchester United’s performance in their 1-1 draw against Ipswich Town, criticizing the team for failing to sustain their intensity and allowing the opposition to grow into the game. Speaking on Sky Sports, Keane expressed his frustration with United’s overly cautious approach after an encouraging start under new manager Rúben Amorim.
The match at Portman Road started brightly for Manchester United, with Marcus Rashford scoring within two minutes of kickoff. Rashford capitalized on a precise cross from Amad Diallo to put United ahead, signaling a strong opening for Amorim’s tenure. The goal highlighted the early promise of Amorim’s tactical setup, as the team showed dynamism and attacking intent.
However, the game’s momentum shifted swiftly, with Ipswich growing in confidence and applying pressure. Although Andre Onana pulled off an impressive save to deny Liam Delap, Ipswich equalized before halftime when Omari Hutchinson’s deflected shot found the back of the net.
Keane acknowledged United’s initial brilliance but was unimpressed with their inability to maintain dominance. “The start was perfect—exactly what you want early in a game,” he said. “Rashford’s goal was well-executed, even if the connection wasn’t flawless, and the wing-backs showed real purpose. But from there, it went downhill.”
His analysis turned sharply critical as he highlighted United’s passive response after scoring. “It’s as though they switched off completely after the goal,” Keane observed. “Ipswich deserved their equalizer. United started strong but then sat back and invited pressure. Why give Ipswich that kind of encouragement? It gave them the belief to fight back.”
Keane also touched on a larger issue with Manchester United’s mindset, lamenting their diminishing aura. “There’s no fear factor when teams face United anymore,” he declared. “Opponents now feel they can grow into the game and compete, and that’s exactly what Ipswich did. United gave them the confidence they needed, and it cost them.”
The former United captain’s comments reflect broader concerns about the team’s inconsistency and inability to build on strong beginnings.
While Amorim’s appointment has sparked optimism, this performance highlighted the significant work still needed. Keane stressed the importance of instilling a relentless mentality in the squad, ensuring they maintain focus and pressure throughout matches.
For Keane, this game was emblematic of a recurring problem at United—failing to capitalize on early promise. He warned that unless Amorim can address this lack of intensity and instill a more ruthless approach, United’s ambitions of competing at the highest level will remain out of reach.
