Manchester United icon Gary Neville was critical of his former team's start to the season, branding them "scruffy" under manager Erik ten Hag. The ex-defender has also issued a warning to the Red Devils, declaring they need to "raise their game" before they face last season's runners-up Arsenal.
Manchester United have not filled their fans with confidence in their opening games of the 2023-24 season. Beginning with a narrow and lucky 1-0 victory over Wolves, the Red Devils were then defeated by Tottenham (2-0).
They went two goals down inside five minutes against Nottingham Forest, and although they showed grit to fight back to a 3-2 win, their inconsistency has drawn criticism, particularly from former United defender, Gary Neville.
"You always feel under Ten Hag, they're not fluid at all at this stage of the season", said Neville on his 'Sky Sports' podcast. "They're always scruffy the first few weeks".
"You think about the Wolves game where Wolves were really unlucky not to get the victory. Nottingham Forest will feel really hard done by too. They also get beat at Tottenham", he continued.
The Red Devils travel to Emirates for their fourth game to face historic rivals Arsenal, who have been labelled as major title contenders this season, and should provide United with their toughest challenge so far.
"They've got a match against Arsenal, which will be really interesting because Arsenal slipped up (against ten-man Fulham)", acknowledged the former defender. "Two tough away games with Tottenham and now Arsenal. If they hadn't won their home games they'd be under pressure".
"Arsenal are expected to challenge for the league. It's a big test for United. Their performances so far have been below par. If you're below par at the Emirates, you'll be beaten. United need to raise their game", he finished ominously.