The football world has been buzzing after former Manchester United midfielder Owen Hargreaves launched a scathing attack on United’s tactics in the wake of their crushing 0-3 defeat to Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium. His sharpest criticism was aimed at the decision not to start rising star Kobbie Mainoo, who had impressed with an outstanding performance in his most recent appearance.

Speaking passionately to Premier League Productions, Hargreaves said:

"I just don’t understand why Kobbie Mainoo wasn’t in the starting XI. When he came on, he showed he was one of the best players on the pitch. In just 30 minutes, he looked head and shoulders above the others."

The former Red Devil didn’t stop there. He slammed United’s overall system, questioning the tactical choices made on the night. He pointed out the misuse of Bruno Fernandes, แมนเชสเตอร์ยูไนเต็ด forced into an unnatural deep-lying midfield role, and the ineffectiveness of striker Benjamin Šeško in a high-pressure clash.

In stark contrast, Hargreaves highlighted Erling Haaland’s relentless energy and physicality, saying the Norwegian embodied hunger and power—qualities sorely missing from United’s lackluster display.