Gary Neville makes feelings clear after being called out by Man Utd boss Ruben Amorim

Jack Otway

By Jack Otway


Published: 05/01/2026

- 08:47

The Sky Sports pundit has opened up following Sunday's result at Elland Road

Gary Neville believes Ruben Amorim is "starting to unleash" amid apparent discontent with Manchester United's leadership structure.

The former United captain responded to Amorim's extraordinary post-match comments following Sunday's 1-1 draw at Leeds, drawing parallels with Enzo Maresca's breakdown in relations with Chelsea's hierarchy that culminated in the Italian's exit from Stamford Bridge.


"Something's happened there in the last week with the quotes that are coming out that mean that Ruben Amorim is now starting to unleash a little bit, as Maresca did when he said, 'I've had the worst 48 hours (at Chelsea)'," Neville said.

The pundit suggested observers must interpret Amorim's cryptic statements, which indicate dissatisfaction with those above him at Old Trafford.

During his press conference, the Portuguese boss emphasised his role as United's manager rather than merely their coach, while repeatedly questioning whether he would remain at the club until his contract concludes in 2027.

Amorim had hinted at behind-the-scenes frustrations before the Leeds fixture and declined to elaborate on previous remarks concerning transfer strategy.

The 40-year-old directly referenced the Sky Sports pundit during his media briefing, stating: "If people cannot handle the Gary Nevilles and the criticisms of everything, we need to change the club."

Ruben AmorimRuben Amorim cut a frustrated figure after Manchester United's draw with Leeds | PA

Neville acknowledged being singled out, noting that managers frequently target pundits during challenging spells, adding he had "no problem with that whatsoever."

The Red Devils legend defended his commentary record, pointing out that he had actually praised United's displays in their matches against Bournemouth, Aston Villa and Newcastle in recent weeks.

"I've actually been quite supportive in the last few weeks of Manchester United's performances against Bournemouth, Aston Villa and Newcastle, I thought they were very good," he explained.

Ruben Amorim factsFive things to know about Man Utd boss Ruben Amorim | PA

However, the former right-back made clear he could not offer similar backing following the Wolves encounter, suggesting this may have prompted Amorim's criticism.

"But I couldn't be supportive after the game against Wolves, if that's what Ruben Amorim was referring to," Neville added.

The club invested more than £200million during the summer transfer window, recruiting Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, Benjamin Sesko and Senne Lammens.

Despite speculation linking United with a January move for Bournemouth's Antoine Semenyo, Neville expressed little surprise that funds appear unavailable for mid-season reinforcements.

The pundit identified Amorim's likely requirements as a specialist wing-back to complement his 3-4-3 formation and a powerful central midfielder, positions he believes should have been addressed in the summer when the club opted to bolster attacking options instead.

Enzo Maresca

Ruben Amorim has been compared to former Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca, who was axed by the Blues on New Year's Day

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PA

"Maybe he's been told in the last week or two that he's not getting any players," Neville speculated.

He warned ominously: "When these press conferences of this ilk start, it's never usually good."

United are next in action against Burnley on Wednesday night (8.15pm).

After that, they'll face Brighton in the FA Cup before turning attentions towards Premier League showdowns against Manchester City and Arsenal.