Roy Keane Loses Patience After Wolves Draw as Amorim’s Decision Comes Under Fire
Manchester United’s frustrating draw against Wolves has sparked intense debate, but no reaction was as explosive as that of club legend Roy Keane, who did not hold back in his assessment of Ruben Amorim’s team selection.
Speaking shortly after the final whistle, Keane delivered one of his most brutal verdicts of the season, aiming directly at the decision to start Joshua Zirkzee and Casemiro together — a pairing he believes completely destabilised United’s performance.
“Don’t ever start those two together again. Ever,” Keane fumed.
“It was painful to watch. Against a physical, aggressive Wolves side, that decision was a disaster. At times, United were playing with nine men.”
The draw has left fans divided, but Keane’s words have resonated with many who felt United were second-best for long spells despite escaping with a point.
‘Even the Worst Coach Wouldn’t Do That’ – Keane’s Brutal Verdict
Keane’s frustration was clear as he dissected the tactical setup that saw Zirkzee and Casemiro deployed together in midfield and attack.
According to the former United captain, the pairing simply does not work — especially in high-intensity Premier League matches.
“You can’t play them together in games like this. Wolves were aggressive, fast, and physical. United needed energy and mobility. Instead, they had two players who slowed everything down.”
Keane went further, suggesting the decision bordered on negligence.
“Even the worst coach in the league wouldn’t make that mistake. It cost United control of the game, it cost them momentum, and it almost cost them the match.”
The comment has since gone viral, with fans echoing the same concerns across social media.
Why Zirkzee and Casemiro Struggled
From the opening minutes, Wolves targeted United’s midfield, pressing aggressively and forcing turnovers. Casemiro, once the heartbeat of United’s midfield, struggled to keep up with the pace, while Zirkzee failed to offer the pressing intensity required in Amorim’s system.
Key issues highlighted by analysts:
At one stage in the second half, United went nearly 10 minutes without a meaningful attack, with Wolves dominating possession and territory.
Keane summed it up perfectly:
“United were lucky to get a draw. Very lucky.”
Amorim Under Pressure as Tactical Calls Questioned
While Ruben Amorim has largely received praise for improving United’s structure since his arrival, this decision has raised serious questions about his judgment in high-pressure matches.
The Wolves game was seen as a key test — and many believe he failed it.
Fans inside Old Trafford grew restless as Wolves pushed forward, and the atmosphere turned tense when United failed to capitalise on several promising counter-attacks.
Former players and pundits have since questioned why Amorim didn’t make earlier changes or adjust his system sooner.
Fans React: “Never Again”
United supporters were quick to back Keane’s comments online:
The overwhelming sentiment is clear: the experiment failed — and must not be repeated.
What This Means Going Forward
With tougher fixtures ahead, Amorim now faces a crucial decision. Persisting with the same combination could cost United valuable points in the race for Europe.
Keane issued one final warning:
“If Amorim keeps making these kinds of decisions, he’ll learn the hard way. This league doesn’t forgive mistakes.”
The message is loud and clear — Manchester United cannot afford tactical experiments when margins are this fine.
Final Word
Manchester United escaped with a draw, but the performance raised more questions than answers. Roy Keane’s brutal assessment may sound harsh, but it reflects the growing frustration among fans who expect better.
If Ruben Amorim wants to maintain trust, one thing is certain:
Zirkzee and Casemiro cannot start together again.
