Former Manchester United striker Michael Owen has launched a scathing critique of the club’s defensive setup following their 1-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday. The loss, which saw James Maddison capitalise on a defensive lapse to score the only goal of the game, has reignited concerns over United’s ability to perform in key moments under Ruben Amorim.
Owen, never one to shy away from voicing his opinions, pulled no punches in his assessment of United’s backline, describing their performance as “sleeping” and questioning the very purpose of playing with three centre-backs if they fail to mark anyone.
A Defensive System Under Scrutiny
Since Ruben Amorim’s arrival in November, United have transitioned to a back-three system in an attempt to shore up their defensive frailties. While the numbers suggest some improvement – 35 goals conceded in 25 Premier League matches is respectable compared to many teams – the underlying issues remain glaring.
Against Tottenham, the defensive trio of Harry Maguire, Matthijs de Ligt, and Noussair Mazraoui looked disjointed and vulnerable. Maddison’s 13th-minute goal, which came after Andre Onana parried a long-range effort straight into his path, highlighted the lack of awareness and urgency in United’s defensive ranks.
Speaking to Premier League Productions (via The Metro), Owen didn’t hold back in his criticism.
“What frustrates me more than anything about the Manchester United team is that those centre-halves do nothing during the game,” Owen said. “They hardly pick up any players at all, yet when you ask them to do one job – stop the guy who’s shooting – they’re sleeping at that as well.”
Owen’s frustration wasn’t limited to the goal itself. He pointed out that the lack of defensive engagement was a recurring theme throughout the match.
“We’ve seen so many clips in the first half when there’s nobody to pick up, there’s three of them literally doing nothing. They won’t push in, they won’t go and mark anybody, they just sit there.”
The Easiest Position on the Pitch?
Owen’s most damning indictment came when he questioned the very purpose of United’s defensive setup. With three centre-backs on the pitch, one would expect a solid, organised defensive unit. Instead, Owen argued that the system has created a passive and ineffective backline.
“I don’t understand the need to play so many defenders when they seemingly don’t mark anybody,” Owen said. “The position must be the easiest position on the pitch.”
In contrast, Owen highlighted the immense pressure on United’s midfield, which he described as the “hardest place to play in the Premier League.”
“The midfield for Manchester United has to be the hardest place to play in the Premier League, and the defence should be the easiest because they literally mark no one, ever,” he said.
This imbalance, Owen argued, has left United consistently outnumbered in other areas of the pitch. With three defenders often standing idle, the midfield and attack are left to shoulder an unsustainable burden.
A Broader Issue for Amorim to Address
While Owen’s comments were pointed, they reflect a broader issue that Ruben Amorim must address if United are to progress. The back-three system, while theoretically sound, has failed to deliver the defensive solidity it promises. The lack of aggression, awareness, and cohesion among the defenders has left United vulnerable to counter-attacks and individual errors.
Amorim’s tactical philosophy relies on a high-pressing, proactive approach, but this requires every player to fulfil their defensive responsibilities. If the centre-backs are not actively engaging with opponents or closing down space, the entire system falls apart.
The Portuguese manager must now decide whether to persist with the current setup or revert to a more traditional back four. Either way, the defensive issues must be resolved if United are to compete at the highest level.
A Call for Accountability
Owen’s critique is a wake-up call for United’s defenders. While the midfield and attack have often borne the brunt of criticism this season, the defensive unit must also take responsibility for their performances.
Harry Maguire, despite his experience, has struggled to lead the backline effectively. Matthijs de Ligt, a player of immense talent, has yet to consistently replicate his best form in a United shirt. Noussair Mazraoui, while versatile, has looked out of place in a back-three system.
For Amorim, the challenge is clear: instil a sense of urgency and accountability in his defenders. Whether through tactical adjustments, personnel changes, or improved coaching, the defensive issues must be addressed if United are to achieve their ambitions.
Conclusion: A Season of Frustration
Michael Owen’s comments may be harsh, but they underscore the frustrations of a season that has failed to live up to expectations. While Ruben Amorim’s arrival brought hope of a new era at Old Trafford, the defensive woes have persisted, undermining the team’s progress.
As United look to rebuild and regroup, the focus must be on finding a balance between attack and defence. The talent is there, but without the right structure and mentality, it will continue to go to waste.
For now, the criticism will sting, but it also serves as a reminder of the standards expected at Manchester United. The question is whether Amorim and his players can rise to the challenge.
What do you make of Michael Owen’s comments and United’s defensive issues? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below or on our social media channels.
