Gary Neville expressed deep concern that Manchester United’s recurring problem of allowing too many goals may not be resolved any time soon, especially after the Red Devils surrendered two goals for the third consecutive match, this time at the hands of Everton. Despite the 2-2 draw, which saw United collect just four points from three league fixtures, midfielder Michael Carrick tried to defend his side’s early‑season performances, describing the start as "not that bad" even though Everton’s late equaliser in stoppage time forced the result.
The fact that United have now let in six goals across three games is a glaring alarm bell for anyone who follows the club, and Neville was blunt in saying he does not see a clear solution with the current defensive personnel. Neville pointed out the mounting pressure on United as they prepare for a crucial clash with Manchester City next week and a mid‑week European fixture. "Michael Carrick is trying to build trust with the squad and the supporters that he can replicate the solidity we showed last season," he said, adding that the recent match should have been a win for United.
"Everton were not threatening in the first half, yet we allowed them back into the game." He went on to stress that United’s defensive liability is becoming a habit that could haunt them for the rest of the campaign. "Conceding goals will chase you down the road," Neville warned.
"I’m not sure how Carrick will fix it when he already has his best back four on the pitch. Why did Shaw and Dalot come off with five minutes left?
Ruben Amorin and Erik ten Hag also shuffled the back line. You can’t keep rotating your defence when there isn’t a clear hierarchy behind the first‑choice players." The decisive moment of the match came when Everton substitute Ainsley Maitland‑Niles, on his debut for the Toffees, struck a spectacular 25‑yard equaliser in stoppage time.
While Neville praised the quality of the strike, he was equally frustrated by United’s lack of organisation in the moments leading up to the goal. "Manchester United are conceding two goals a game – you simply cannot afford that," he said. "The post‑transfer‑window questions about our defence were justified; we needed a win today and we couldn’t afford to let in goals." Neville criticised the defensive mishap, describing it as a “massive mistake” born of poor communication. He highlighted that defender Diogo Dalot’s decision to press high and isolate himself created space for Everton’s attack, and that the subsequent substitution of right‑back Alejandro Yáñez (referred to as Yoro) underscored the problem, as Yáñez’s narrow positioning left the flank exposed.
"A lot happens before the ball hits the net. When you’re playing away and trying to protect a result, you must push up and avoid stupid errors. United could have stopped that goal at its source," Neville lamented.
The former United defender recalled his own playing days, noting that during the era between Peter Schmeichel and Edwin van der Sar, opponents occasionally believed they could break down the Old Trafford defence. "Teams felt they had a chance against us, and we weren’t defensively strong enough. That feeling that you can score against you is a terrible place to be," he reflected.
Neville’s analysis suggests that United’s defensive woes are not merely a series of isolated incidents but a systemic issue that requires more than tactical tweaks. He argued that the coaching staff must establish a clear hierarchy in the back line, improve communication among the defenders, and perhaps reconsider the roles of players who are currently being shuffled in and out of the starting XI.
Moreover, the psychological aspect of allowing opponents to believe they can score must be addressed, as confidence at the back often translates into stability across the entire team. Looking ahead, United face a daunting schedule: a high‑stakes derby against Manchester City, a crucial European tie, and a league campaign that will test their depth and resilience. If the defensive frailties persist, even the most potent attack will struggle to compensate for the goals conceded. Fans and pundits alike will be watching closely to see whether Carrick can implement the necessary adjustments before the next match, or whether United will continue to bleed goals, jeopardising their ambitions for the season.
In summary, Neville’s fear is that Manchester United’s habit of conceding goals is entrenched, and without decisive action—whether through personnel changes, clearer defensive structures, or improved communication—the club may find itself perpetually chasing games rather than dictating them. The upcoming fixtures will serve as a litmus test for whether the Red Devils can finally put an end to this worrying trend.