Manchester United’s Carabao Cup campaign has come to an abrupt and shocking end after an embarrassing defeat to League Two side Grimsby Town, a result that has thrown Old Trafford into turmoil. The shock exit has intensified scrutiny on head coach Ruben Amorim, who has responded with a fiery defense of his role, declaring: *“Stop the blame, I am not the problem.”*
Amorim, brought in to revitalize United with fresh energy and direction, is now facing one of the biggest storms of his tenure. The loss is being described as one of the club’s most humiliating cup exits in recent memory, as Grimsby—operating with a fraction of United’s financial power—exploited glaring weaknesses across the pitch. The result not only eliminated United from the competition but also reignited concerns about the squad’s mentality and unity.
Rather than quietly absorbing the criticism, Amorim hit back strongly after the match. He made it clear that while the result was unacceptable, he refuses to be made the sole scapegoat. “This defeat hurts, but let’s be honest—it’s not just about me. The issues run deeper, and everyone can see that. I won’t stand here and accept being painted as the only problem.”
Behind the scenes, reports suggest Amorim has become increasingly frustrated with senior players who have failed to provide leadership and with a divided dressing room that has not been properly addressed by the club’s hierarchy. Certain high-profile stars are also said to be underperforming, hiding behind their reputations while avoiding accountability for poor performances.
The fanbase is now fractured. A large section holds Amorim responsible, criticizing his tactical approach and what they see as a refusal to accept blame. Yet others argue he is simply exposing uncomfortable truths that have long been swept under the carpet: fragile team unity, unchecked egos, and flawed recruitment that has left the squad unbalanced and short of character.
Commentators have not held back either. Club captain Bruno Fernandes, along with Marcus Rashford and Casemiro, have been accused of failing to step up when leadership was most needed. Roy Keane, never one to mince words, claimed the team looked “beaten before they even started,” while Gary Neville questioned whether the board has genuinely supported Amorim in his attempt to rebuild the side.
Still, Amorim’s message remains unyielding. “If fans want to boo me, fine, I can handle it. But don’t ignore the bigger picture. This club has systemic problems, and until that is faced, nothing will change.”
As the Premier League fixtures loom, the pressure on Amorim grows heavier. The key question is whether he can rally the squad and steady the ship, or whether the Grimsby debacle has already sealed his fate. What is beyond doubt is that Manchester United has entered another storm, and Amorim has made it clear that he refuses to carry the blame alone.
