Pep Guardiola has once again stirred the football world after making a striking observation about Manchester United’s persistent defensive woes. Following United’s recent encounter with Brighton, the Manchester City manager reportedly claimed that goalkeeper André Onana — often criticized for the team’s defensive lapses — is not the true source of their problems. Instead, Guardiola hinted that one particular outfield player is the real weak link, consistently leaving the Cameroonian exposed and disrupting the team’s overall structure.
Known for his tactical brilliance and straightforward commentary, Guardiola didn’t hold back in his assessment. “When I watched Manchester United against Brighton, it was obvious that Onana isn’t the issue,” he was quoted as saying. “There’s a player in that side who keeps abandoning his position, breaking their shape, and putting the goalkeeper in impossible situations.”
Although Guardiola refrained from naming the player, his comments instantly sparked widespread speculation among fans and analysts. Contrary to expectations, the blame didn’t fall on Harry Maguire, who has often been the target of scrutiny in recent seasons. Instead, attention quickly shifted toward two other United regulars — Casemiro and Diogo Dalot. Many believe Guardiola’s words were aimed at Casemiro, who has struggled to replicate the dominant defensive form he once displayed. The Brazilian midfielder, previously regarded as United’s most dependable shield, has looked slower, less disciplined, and frequently caught out of position, allowing opponents to exploit open spaces. Others, however, argue that Guardiola might have been referring to Dalot, whose aggressive forward runs often leave gaps down the flanks — weaknesses that Brighton capitalized on effectively during the match.
The pattern of defensive vulnerability was evident once more, with Onana frequently left exposed as his defenders failed to track runners or maintain shape. Guardiola’s remarks echoed a sentiment shared by many pundits this season — that Manchester United’s defensive collapse begins higher up the pitch. “A goalkeeper can only perform as well as the defense in front of him,” Pep explained. “If midfielders and full-backs fail to hold their positions, even world-class goalkeepers will suffer.”
His analysis reignited debate across social media and football shows alike. Many supporters sided with Guardiola, insisting that Onana has been unfairly scapegoated since joining the club. While the Cameroonian made some costly early errors, his struggles are often a byproduct of poor defensive organization and a lack of tactical discipline from those ahead of him.
Ruben Amorim, United’s current manager, has attempted to plug the holes in his side’s backline, but the same recurring problems remain — lapses in focus, untracked runs, and a lack of compactness between the lines. Guardiola’s comments may have been part genuine analysis and part psychological warfare ahead of the next Manchester derby, but they touched a nerve at Old Trafford.
One thing is certain: Manchester United’s defensive issues extend far beyond their goalkeeper. If Guardiola’s sharp assessment is correct, Amorim faces tough decisions ahead — and perhaps some uncomfortable conversations about who truly deserves to keep their place in United’s starting eleven.
