Manchester United’s growing issues with discipline and player attitude would not have stood a chance under Sir Alex Ferguson, according to former Red Devils winger Nani. The club icon believes that the challenges currently confronting head coach Ruben Amorim highlight a generational shift in dressing-room culture — one that Ferguson’s famously unforgiving management style would have quickly stamped out.
Advertisements
Ferguson’s reign at Old Trafford was defined not only by trophies but by an unwavering hierarchy where no individual, regardless of reputation or talent, was allowed to place themselves above the club. Nani insists that such standards are now being tested under Amorim, who has openly criticised aspects of his squad’s mentality.
Amorim calls out “entitlement” among United’s youngsters
Ahead of Manchester United’s recent Premier League trip to Aston Villa, Amorim raised eyebrows when he questioned the attitude of some of the club’s young players. The Portuguese coach suggested that a sense of entitlement was influencing his reluctance to rely heavily on academy products during the 2025–26 campaign.
Amorim’s comments followed public criticism of defender Harry Amass, currently on loan at Sheffield Wednesday, and teenage forward Chido Obi. Both youngsters responded indirectly through social media, defending their performances and progression — a reaction that only fuelled debate around discipline and professionalism within the squad.
The United boss was unapologetic in his stance, arguing that strong criticism is sometimes necessary for development. He stressed that difficult moments should be embraced, not resisted, and warned that players risk forgetting what it truly means to represent Manchester United. Amorim also expressed frustration that, despite his door being open, none of the affected players chose to discuss their concerns privately.
Mainoo controversy draws attention, but not punishment
One of the most talked-about moments came during United’s dramatic 4–4 draw with Bournemouth in mid-December, when Kobbie Mainoo’s half-brother appeared in the stands wearing a shirt reading “Free Kobbie Mainoo.” The message referenced the midfielder’s lack of starts this season, despite his previous importance under Erik ten Hag.
Advertisements
Mainoo, who has made 11 substitute appearances without starting a league match, had been a trusted figure following his breakthrough in 2022. Amorim, however, dismissed suggestions that the incident would influence his selection decisions.
He clarified that Mainoo himself was not responsible and reiterated that family actions would not affect a player’s standing within the squad. Amorim praised Mainoo’s performances when called upon and insisted the situation had been blown out of proportion.
Garnacho’s exit highlights growing tensions
Discipline and communication issues were not limited to academy players. Earlier in the season, Amorim informed Alejandro Garnacho that he was not part of his long-term plans, leading to the winger’s £40 million move to Chelsea.
The decision followed Garnacho’s visible frustration after being used sparingly in the Europa League final defeat to Tottenham. His brother Roberto later launched a public attack on Amorim via social media, accusing the coach of disrespecting the player’s contributions.
The episode reinforced perceptions of unrest behind the scenes and highlighted the delicate balance Amorim must strike between authority and player management.
Nani: “Nobody was bigger than the club.”
Former winger Nani, who enjoyed an eight-year spell at United between 2007 and 2015, believes today’s players would struggle to cope under Ferguson’s leadership. The Portuguese international, who won 12 major trophies at Old Trafford, recalled how swiftly and decisively Ferguson dealt with any deviation from expected standards.
According to Nani, players who crossed the line were immediately sidelined until lessons were learned. He stressed that punishment was not personal, but educational — a means of reinforcing the club’s values.
Nani even admitted he experienced this first-hand early in his United career. After delivering an outstanding performance, he found himself inexplicably dropped for several weeks. Confused and frustrated, he later realised there were off-pitch behaviours Ferguson wanted addressed. Once corrected, his path back into the team was clear.
The message, Nani says, was simple: talent alone was never enough. Discipline, humility, and respect were mandatory, regardless of status. Icons like Cristiano Ronaldo, Wayne Rooney, and Ryan Giggs were treated no differently.
United face a defining test against Newcastle
As United prepare to host Newcastle United on Boxing Day, Amorim’s authority will again come under scrutiny. Following the chaotic draw with Bournemouth, the Red Devils were comfortably beaten by Aston Villa, exposing lingering issues both tactically and mentally.
Newcastle arrive in strong form, having lost just once in their last seven matches across all competitions. A win at Old Trafford would see Eddie Howe’s side draw level on points with United, intensifying pressure on Amorim and his squad.
For many observers, the contrast between Ferguson’s era and the present day is stark. Whether Amorim can reassert control and instil a similar culture of accountability remains one of the defining questions of Manchester United’s season.
Advertisements