Olympic icon and devoted Manchester United supporter Usain Bolt has delivered a passionate critique of his team's defensive struggles, revealing the performances are leaving him genuinely stressed.
Bolt's Emotional Outburst
The eight-time Olympic gold medallist was so dismayed by United's defensive display in their recent 2-2 draw against Tottenham that he sent an exasperated voice message to Red Devils legend Rio Ferdinand.
"I just watched the United game. One of our biggest problems is when we invite pressure to ourselves," Bolt declared in the message featured on Rio Ferdinand Presents.
Bolt specifically highlighted Leny Yoro's role in Tottenham's opening goal, questioning why the defender retreated rather than pressing Wilson Odobert when the opponent had his back turned.
Defensive Deficiencies Exposed
The sprint champion didn't hold back in his assessment of United's backline capabilities, making a startling claim about their one-on-one defending.
"They don't know how to defend one-on-one. Luke Shaw is the only one that seems like he understands," Bolt asserted.
He criticised the defenders for being too system-reliant, suggesting they lack the instinct to step up, apply pressure, and support each other effectively during gameplay.
United's defensive statistics this season support Bolt's concerns. The team has managed just one clean sheet in twelve matches, conceding twenty goals during that period.
Ferdinand's Counterpoint
While acknowledging some validity in Bolt's complaints, the former United defender offered a different perspective, particularly praising one member of the current squad.
"The only one I really back him on is the passing the ball quicker," Ferdinand commented, noting that manager Ruben Amorim has emphasised this aspect.
He singled out Dutch defender Matthijs de Ligt for particular praise: "Our best one who's done it this year is De Ligt. He's been really good at it, he's shown the way the manager wants him to do it."
Ferdinand urged perspective, reminding fans that United remain in a "rebuilding phase" under Amorim, who has guided the team to an unbeaten run of five games despite their seventh-place position in the Premier League.
The international break provides a temporary respite before United return to action against Everton on November 24, giving both Bolt and Ferdinand hope for improved defensive performances ahead.
