Paul Scholes has criticised Manchester United’s lack of attacking threat and questioned Matheus Cunha’s position in the team after their frustrating 2-2 draw at Everton.
The former United midfielder said Michael Carrick’s side had been too passive at Goodison Park, where they surrendered two leads before leaving with a point. United have won only one of their opening three games, prompting Carrick to respond to concerns about their start by saying: "It's not that bad”.
However, Scholes believes the performance highlighted wider problems for a team that has struggled to find fluency in the final third. He was particularly critical of United’s approach against Everton, arguing that they failed to take advantage of the opportunities available to them.
"I felt it was really timid against Everton. There was no aggression and Everton were there for the taking. There was so much space and they never went for the throat."
The lack of a recognised centre-forward has also become a central issue for Manchester United. Benjamin Sesko has not been selected in the position, while Marcus Rashford and Bryan Mbeumo have also been unable to provide the consistent threat required to make the attack more effective.
Scholes said Sesko’s presence would give United a focal point and make it easier for the side to build attacks through the middle of the pitch.
"The centre forward position is a bit of an issue because he is not playing Sesko.
"He is a focal point. It is very difficult to watch a Manchester United team without a centre forward.
“With Cunha, we don’t really know what he is, a No.10 or a wide player but he’s definitely not a No.9 and watching United without a No.9 is a struggle."
Cunha has shown he can contribute creatively, providing two assists in Manchester United’s 5-2 victory over Ipswich Town. Nevertheless, his limited impact in front of goal has continued to concern supporters and pundits, including Scholes.
The Brazil international’s uncertain role has added to the questions surrounding the balance of United’s forward line. While he can operate behind the striker or from a wider position, Scholes does not believe he offers the qualities of a traditional number nine.
That issue has been made more noticeable by the absence of a settled attacking structure. United’s forwards have yet to blend consistently, and their inability to turn possession and chances into sustained pressure has left the side looking blunt.
Carrick’s team managed to avoid defeat at Everton, but the result extended the scrutiny over their early-season performances. For Scholes, United’s biggest concern is not simply the number of points collected but the way they are attempting to attack, with the team lacking both aggression and a clear focal point in the final third.