Manchester United faced a frustrating evening at Old Trafford on Tuesday, as they were held to a 1-1 draw by bottom club Wolves. The result left fans angry and dismayed, and manager Ruben Amorim came under intense scrutiny following his post-match comments.
United entered the game hoping to finish 2025 on a high, aiming for back-to-back home victories after narrowly defeating Newcastle the previous weekend. A fixture against Wolves, who had struggled for form and confidence, was seen as the perfect opportunity to build momentum.
Joshua Zirkzee gave United an early lead in the first half, his strike deflecting off a Wolves defender to put the hosts ahead. However, tactical changes at half-time saw Zirkzee substituted for 18-year-old Jack Fletcher, as Amorim attempted to adjust to Wolves’ unexpected midfield pressure.
Despite taking the lead, United could not extend their advantage. Wolves equalized before half-time through a Ladislav Krejci header from a corner. Late in the match, Patrick Dorgu thought he had won the game for the Red Devils, only for the goal to be ruled out for offside.
Wolves arguably created the better chances during the contest, forcing goalkeeper Senne Lammens into multiple key saves. The point gained was Wolves’ first since October, highlighting their resilience despite sitting 15 points from safety after 16 league defeats.
Manchester United’s lack of creativity was evident in the absence of Bruno Fernandes and Mason Mount. Frustrated fans expressed their displeasure with boos at full-time, reflecting ongoing concerns over the team’s home performances this season.
Amorim’s comments after the match baffled supporters. He described the game as “completely different” and claimed United had “full control of the game,” a statement widely dismissed by fans and analysts alike.
“I think against Everton we clearly underperformed,” Amorim said, attempting to put the Wolves draw in context. “West Ham, we had some lack of creation but we had our chances. Bournemouth, we had the advantage three times… Today was completely different. We had the game, we had full control of the game.”
Social media erupted in response to his remarks. One fan tweeted: “Control of the game? They had a higher xG than us and looked more likely to score!” Another wrote: “What game was he watching? Mané bossed the entire midfield.” A third added: “We did NOT have any sort of control over that game. #AmorimOut.”
United’s failure to beat a struggling Wolves side meant the team ended 2025 in sixth place, with 30 points from eight wins, six draws, and five defeats. Fans voiced concern over the team’s inconsistency and the manager’s ability to inspire improvement.
Despite criticism, Amorim remains optimistic about the season’s second half. He believes that once injured players return and those away for the Africa Cup of Nations are reintegrated, United will be in a stronger position.
“I’m really confident,” he said. “We just need to recover all the players. I don’t know what is going to happen until the end of the season. Once everyone is back, I’m confident we will be a strong team. There is no doubt in my mind.”
Manchester United will return to action on Sunday with an early kick-off against Leeds United at Elland Road, an opportunity to bounce back from a disappointing end to the year and show supporters that improvements are underway.
The Wolves draw and Amorim’s comments have sparked widespread debate about the manager’s tactics, communication, and the club’s direction moving into 2026. Supporters and pundits alike will be watching closely to see whether United can respond effectively in the coming weeks.