Roy Keane explodes after United’s late collapse at Old Trafford

December 5, 2025 Oliver Obel

Roy Keane didn’t hold back on Thursday night. Moments after Manchester United let another lead slip at Old Trafford, the former club captain questioned the team’s mentality, depth, and most sharply, the contribution of Mason Mount. For Keane, the midfielder’s brief appearance symbolised a deeper issue.

Speaking on Sky Sports, he argued that despite the money invested in the squad, United still lack dependable options when trying to close out matches.
“Some players take longer to get up to speed, but he was like a schoolboy out there,” Keane said. “You’re looking for players to come on with presence.”

His assessment landed only minutes after West Ham had punished United for failing to kill off a game they had largely controlled.

Late lapse erases promising spell

United’s evening had seemed on track midway through the second half. They had gradually taken command after a cagey opening, and Diogo Dalot’s close-range finish in the 58th minute reflected a growing sense that the hosts had settled into the match.

What followed, though, felt familiar to supporters who have watched leads evaporate before. United created half-chances but never found the second goal, allowing West Ham to remain in touch. And with six minutes left of regular time, Soungoutou Magassa steered in the equaliser, turning Old Trafford from relieved to restless in a moment.

The draw lifted United only to eighth place — technically progress, but still a reminder of how costly small lapses have become this season.

Supporters question substitutions

Online reaction arrived quickly and with a clear target: the decisions from the bench. Many United fans argued that Ruben Amorim disrupted the team’s rhythm by turning to Manuel Ugarte rather than opting for Kobbie Mainoo in the closing stages. Their frustration wasn’t new; several supporters noted that late substitutions have too often coincided with United losing control of matches.

Mount’s cameo drew even sharper criticism, both from fans and from Keane, who said the changes “brought the levels down at United.”

Deeper concerns exposed

Keane didn’t limit his comments to individuals. He revisited United’s habit of surrendering initiative, referencing the collapse to ten-man Everton last month as another example of a side that struggles under pressure.

“If you can’t deal with being one up against a team in the bottom three,” he said, “how can you deal with being a team at the top of the table?”

Mount, who scored the winner against Crystal Palace just days earlier, cut a subdued figure at full-time, his 11th league appearance ending in disappointment rather than progress.

Looking ahead

United now turn their attention to Monday’s trip to Wolves — a match that suddenly carries added weight. Amorim will face renewed questions about his late-game management, while fans will look for signs that the team can protect leads rather than surrender them.

If United are to climb into the European places, solving that problem may matter as much as any tactical tweak.

Source: Sky Sports