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Neville's Alarm Over Man Utd's Defensive Fragility
Manchester United have now shipped two goals in each of their opening three fixtures, drawing 2-2 at Everton after leading twice—a pattern Gary Neville believes signals deeper structural problems.
7 Sep 2026 · via skysports.com
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Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko put United ahead in turn, but Everton twice levelled before Ainsley Maitland-Niles struck a stunning 25-yard equaliser in stoppage time. The result leaves Michael Carrick's side on four points, though the manager downplayed concerns about their start.
Neville is unconvinced. According to the Sky Sports pundit, six goals conceded across three matches represents a fundamental flaw that won't be solved with the current squad depth. The left-back and right-back departed with five minutes remaining—a substitution pattern echoing past regimes—yet Neville argues the defensive core cannot be reshuffled without exposing gaps elsewhere.
Rather than blame spectacular finishes alone, Neville criticised United's organisation in the build-up to Maitland-Niles' goal, pointing to a pressing error by Dorgu that left them exposed. He expressed frustration that teams now sense vulnerability against United, comparing it unfavourably to eras anchored by elite goalkeeping.
Carrick's side face Manchester City next week followed by a European fixture, intensifying pressure on defensive improvements. Without reinforcements or tactical adjustments, Neville fears the conceding habit will persist—a liability that could derail the season.
Betting angle
Punters should monitor whether Carrick stabilises the defence before high-stakes matches; opponents may sense a soft target.
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