Roy Keane saw Manchester United narrowly escape against Coventry City on Sunday. This means his former employer is once again in the FA Cup final. Yet, Keane did not spare United. 'This only puts more pressure on the manager.'
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In an unexpected twist in the FA Cup, Manchester United initially took a commanding 3-0 lead early in the match, showcasing moments of brilliance and seeming to secure their path to victory effortlessly.
However, as the game progressed, Coventry City staged a dramatic comeback, revitalizing the match with a relentless offensive push that saw them equalize and take the game to penalties.
Roy Keane, speaking on ITV1, did not hold back in his analysis. “They always give you a chance,” he commented, reflecting on United’s inconsistency throughout the season, as previously evidenced in matches against Wigan Athletic and Newport County. Despite Harry Maguire’s assertions that United demonstrated resilience, Keane disagreed vehemently, expressing deep frustration with the team's performance. “I see no character," Keane stated, adding, "I’m almost at the point where I don’t like them anymore.”
Keane pointed out several instances during the match that irked him, particularly criticizing the team's approach and mentality. “Coventry looked like a Premier League team, United looked like a Championship team,” he observed. His frustration was palpable, especially regarding the goalkeeper's actions to waste time despite having a 2-0 lead. “Just keep going and put in the effort," Keane urged, highlighting a lack of aggressive play.
Although United managed to clinch a victory in the shootout, the celebration was subdued, overshadowed by Keane’s remarks and the visible pressure it puts on the team and its management. "They celebrate reaching a cup final, but this only adds more pressure on the manager,” he noted, suggesting that reaching the final should not mask the deeper issues within the team.
Looking ahead, Manchester United is set to face Manchester City in the FA Cup final at Wembley on May 25. This rematch of last year's final, where City emerged victorious, promises to be a critical test for United. It provides them with an opportunity to redeem themselves in a season marred by ups and downs, and to possibly turn around the narrative that has been building around their performances under pressure.
