Rooney: 'You can’t keep saying it’s about adapting or patience' after Man Utd derby defeat

Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has voiced serious concerns over the direction of the club under manager Rúben Amorim, warning that he has yet to see genuine signs of progress.

Speaking after United’s 3-0 defeat to Manchester City in the derby, Rooney admitted that while Amorim has tried to instil a clear tactical identity, the results and performances suggest little has changed from last season.

“When I look at United now, I don’t see improvement,” Rooney said. “There’s a lot of talk about structure, about style, but it’s not bringing wins or consistency. Players look unsure, and that is worrying.”

United have endured a shaky start to the Premier League campaign, with just four points from their opening four matches.

Defeat at the Etihad once again highlighted familiar problems — defensive lapses, a lack of control in midfield, and an attack that struggles to convert chances. Rooney believes those issues cannot be pinned solely on the players.

“You can’t keep saying it’s about adapting or patience,” he continued. “At some point, results have to follow. United can’t afford another season drifting.”

The former captain, who won five Premier League titles and the Champions League with the club, stressed that Amorim faces a unique challenge given the squad overhaul in recent windows.

With André Onana departing on loan, Altay Bayındır stepping into goal, and new signings like Benjamin Šeško still bedding in, there has been little stability. But Rooney argued that supporters expect more than excuses.

Amorim has already faced questions about his job security, especially after his own comments suggesting he would leave “the next day” if the board decided he was not the right man. While he insists he will not quit voluntarily, the pressure is building as scrutiny intensifies.

Rooney added: “The players have to take responsibility too, but ultimately the manager sets the tone. If things don’t change quickly, then tough conversations will happen.”

United now face a crucial run of fixtures where Amorim must deliver not only better performances, but also tangible results to ease the noise surrounding his tenure. For Rooney, and many fans, patience is wearing thin.