Wayne Rooney has criticised Manchester United, saying the club has “lost its soul” and expressing doubt over manager Ruben Amorim’s ability to revive their fortunes.
United’s struggles continued with a 3-1 defeat at Brentford, leaving them 14th in the Premier League. Amorim, who has taken just 34 points from 33 league games, is yet to secure back-to-back wins since his arrival.
The Red Devils endured their worst campaign in over five decades last season, finishing 15th, despite heavy summer investment in players like Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and Benjamin Sesko.
Rooney, United’s record goalscorer, said he no longer recognises the club he once led to glory under Sir Alex Ferguson.
“I just don’t know what’s going on,” Rooney said on his BBC podcast. “Ruben Amorim is my age, he’s still a young manager and I’m sure he’s got a massive future, but what’s going on at Man Utd, this is not Man Utd. Honestly, I’ve got no faith in it.”
The former captain, who won five Premier League titles and a Champions League with United, accused the players of lacking fight and character.
“I don’t see players fighting, I don’t see desire to win. I go to a game expecting the team to lose or maybe pick up a point. The soul has gone from the club. It needs a new engine, a new lease of life.”
Rooney also highlighted wider issues within the club, including staff departures and uncertainty behind the scenes, adding that he fears the turmoil could impact his two sons, who are in United’s academy.
What you should know
Wayne Rooney, Manchester United’s all-time top scorer, believes the club’s identity and winning culture have disappeared.
He doubts manager Ruben Amorim can fix the decline, blaming not just management but also the players’ lack of passion. Despite major investments, United remain adrift, and Rooney says the club desperately needs fresh energy to recover its former glory.
