EPL: Gary Neville Names Two Man Utd Players Who Should Not Start Together After Tottenham Draw

According to a report by Manchesterevening News o Sunday October 11, 2026, Gary Neville has questioned Manchester United’s midfield partnership after their disappointing 1-1 Premier League draw against Tottenham Hotspur, insisting Michael Carrick must reconsider his selection decisions before upcoming crucial fixtures.

United surrendered victory at Old Trafford on Saturday after conceding a stoppage-time equaliser. Bryan Mbeumo had given the hosts the lead in the 71st minute, but Dominic Solanke rescued Spurs late.

The result extended United’s disappointing campaign, leaving them with six points from six matches. Their inability to protect narrow leads has intensified criticism of Carrick’s management and raised concerns about the squad’s overall balance.

Neville particularly criticised Youri Tielemans and Kobbie Mainoo, arguing that their partnership lacks the intensity required to succeed consistently in the Premier League against competitive opponents.

Speaking to Sky Sports, the former United defender said: “I don’t want to be too drastic, but I’ve seen enough of it to think that’s not a midfield that is dynamic enough to play at this football club in the Premier League.”

Neville acknowledged both midfielders possess individual quality but questioned whether their characteristics complement each other effectively. He believes United need greater energy and improved coordination to control matches and protect defensive advantages.

The former defender also highlighted Carlos Baleba’s introduction as encouraging evidence. The summer signing impressed after replacing Tielemans, providing additional intensity alongside Mainoo during the closing stages.

Neville added that United’s players must improve collectively, warning that their upcoming Champions League assignment against Atletico Madrid will demand considerably greater determination, organisation and midfield discipline from Carrick’s struggling side.

Jamie Redknapp shared Neville’s concerns, describing the partnership as a growing problem for United. The Sky Sports pundit believes their midfield lacks sufficient energy and expects Baleba to provide an important improvement.

Redknapp said: “They have an issue with Tielemans and Mainoo in midfield; I do not see enough energy in there. Baleba will add a lot and will give them a tremendous amount of energy.”

United must quickly recover from their latest setback before travelling to Spain for Tuesday’s Champions League encounter against Atletico Madrid. Carrick faces mounting pressure to address the midfield weaknesses threatening his team’s progress.

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