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ROY KEANE has criticized the Manchester United squad, specifically highlighting the lack of effort from defender Diogo Dalot.

They faced a disappointing match on Sunday, following two stunning goals from their opponents.

England v Andorra, FIFA 2026 World Cup Qualifying, Group K, Football, Villa Park, Birmingham, UK - 06 Sept 2025Roy Keane has criticized the work rate of Manchester United players following their loss to Aston VillaCredit: Shutterstock Editorial Birmingham, England, 21st December 2025. Diogo Dalot of Manchester United during the Aston Villa vs Manchester United Premier League match at Villa Park, Birmingham. Picture credit should read: James Baylis / SportimageHe specifically pointed out Diogo Dalot’s lack of contributionCredit: Alamy

The depleted squad struggled at Villa Park, managing to hold on until just before half-time when

equalized after Matty Cash was dispossessed in defense just three minutes later.

However, United again failed to react quickly to Rogers coming in from Dalot’s right side, leading to further punishment.

The United legend expressed his disappointment with the team’s work ethic and criticized Dalot for neglecting his defensive responsibilities.

“You can possess all the talent in the world, but time and again, we emphasize the need to roll up your sleeves,” he said.

“When the game becomes challenging, or in those critical moments, you should think, ‘I need to contribute to the team.’ There are too many players like Dalot who simply don’t do enough.”

“I won’t use the term ‘cheating,’ but they are not putting in sufficient effort.”

The team’s energy levels have been further impacted by a shortage of available players.

United are facing challenges, with several players departing the club to participate in the Afcon this month.

Despite this, Keane did not hold back in his criticism of Dalot for both goals, as the Portuguese full-back struggled to keep pace with Villa’s rapid offense.

Match stats for Aston Villa (2) vs. Manchester United (1). Diogo Dalot's player statistics against Aston Villa: 69 touches, 35 passes, 2 dribbles, 3 tackles, 4 duels lost, and 2 fouls conceded.

He remarked: “Looking at Dalot for the second goal, the intensity and desire to prevent a cross was lacking…”

He clearly assigns part of the blame for the outcome to the 26-year-old, stating: “After the match, I would focus on him, not the other issues, and I would ask him, ‘Are you going to stop him?’”

“The same goes for the first goal when Rogers receives the ball wide; we all recognize the danger. Do they not see the threat?”

Frequently Asked Questions

What did Roy Keane say about Diogo Dalot's performance?

Roy Keane criticized Diogo Dalot for not putting in enough effort during the match, specifically highlighting his failure to fulfill defensive duties and not reacting quickly enough to threats.

How has the team's energy been affected?

The team's energy levels have been impacted by a shortage of available players, with several players leaving to participate in the Afcon this month.

What were the main criticisms directed at the Manchester United squad?

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