MU legend 'delights' in seeing his former team lose

The ex-Man United midfielder shared deeply bitter comments following his team's continued losses in the Premier League.

Roy Keane could not hide his frustration as he criticized Manchester United after their 1-2 loss to Aston Villa, even admitting he felt “pleased” to see his old club punished for serious flaws in their play, especially their defensive weaknesses off the ball.

Appearing on Sky Sports after the match, the Red Devils legend spoke frankly, pointing out the systemic issues currently plaguing Manchester United. Roy Keane stated: “When they don’t have the ball, they are among the worst teams in the league. Manchester United reduce their effort, take too many risks, and I’m glad they are being punished.”

According to the former Irish midfielder, Man United’s repeated exposure of gaps, lack of intensity in challenges, and failure to maintain pressing intensity show the problem is not merely tactical but also rooted in the players’ mentality and attitude. He believes this is completely unacceptable for a club of Manchester United’s stature and history.

In the match at Villa Park, Man United started better in the first half, creating several notable chances. However, defensive lapses cost them dearly. The opening goal came when Leny Yoro failed to close down Morgan Rogers, allowing him to curl a brilliant shot past goalkeeper Senne Lammens. In the second half, Man United conceded again in a similar situation and were unable to recover. The absence of playmaker Bruno Fernandes left MU lacking threat in their attacking moves.

After the game, Roy Keane issued a warning about Manchester United’s near future. He emphasized: “Newcastle will come to Old Trafford and they will enjoy that game” if the Red Devils do not quickly improve their defensive capabilities and fighting spirit.

This defeat dropped Manchester United to seventh place in the Premier League standings, increasingly falling behind in the race for a Champions League spot. Meanwhile, Unai Emery’s Aston Villa continue their impressive form, sitting third with 36 points, just three behind leaders Arsenal and seven points clear of Chelsea.