Manchester United’s humiliating English Football League Cup (EFL) Cup exit to League Two side Grimsby Town has sparked sharp divisions among the club’s former stars, with Rio Ferdinand and Gary Neville calling for patience while Wayne Rooney insists manager Ruben Amorim has already run out of excuses.
United’s new era under Amorim suffered another blow last night on Wednesday, 27th August, 2025, as they were beaten on penalties after a goalless draw at Blundell Park.
The result leaves the Portuguese coach winless in his first three matches despite overseeing a £200 million summer rebuild that brought in Benjamin Šeško, Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo.
Rio Ferdinand was quick to defend Amorim, urging fans to stay calm and allow the manager time to put his approach into place.
“People should not be changing their opinions about a coach like they are changing shorts,” Ferdinand wrote on his X account.
“It is only the start of the season. We have had a few bad games, but it is time to support Ruben and let him build his team,” he added.
Echoing Ferdinand’s view, Neville stressed that Amorim deserves time before any conclusions are drawn.
“Amorim surely needs the support of the fans and the players,” Neville said. “He is working with a new squad, and with time this team can improve. It is too early to decide his fate,” he stated.
Wayne Rooney, however, took the opposite view, warning that Amorim is already falling short of expectations and could soon be fighting to save his job.
“United spent £200 million on a new forward line and the results have been poor,” Rooney said.
“After securing only one point from two league matches and being knocked out of the EFL Cup, Ruben has no room for error. At a club as big as United, he must produce results fast to restore the fans’ trust,” he added.
Amorim himself apologized to fans after the defeat last night, admitting his team had been second best.
“I just have to say sorry to our fans,” Amorim said. “The best team won tonight. My players showed very clearly where we are, and we have a lot of work ahead.”
The divided opinions among United’s legends reflect the uncertainty surrounding Amorim’s early days at Old Trafford. With pressure mounting, this Saturday’s Premier League clash against Burnley is already being viewed as a crucial test of his ability to steady the ship.
