Neville makes bold top four claim after Man Utd thrashing

Will Ford
Gary Neville during a Sky Sports broadcast

Gary Neville is still backing Manchester United to finish in the top four this season despite their hammering at the hands of Manchester City on Sunday.

Two goals each from Kevin De Bruyne and Riyad Mahrez saw Pep Guardiola’s side ease past United at the Etihad, leaving the Red Devils in fifth place, one point behind Arsenal in fourth.


READ MORE: Ralf Rangnick tops Premier League losers for first time


But Ralf Rangnick’s side face an uphill battle to catch the Gunners, who have three games in hand.

But Neville still believes United could clinch the last Champions League qualification spot as he doesn’t “trust” Arsenal.

Speaking on Sky Sports after the game, Neville said: “I still think United could do it.

“I just don’t trust Arsenal fully. I think it would be brilliant for Mikel Arteta and Arsenal if they did it those young players it would be fantastic.

“But, I do think they have got some big games still to play. I think Manchester United have still got to go to Arsenal as well, there is a long way to go and United could still do it.”

But Neville was far from impressed with his former side’s display, claiming they were a “disgrace” in the second half.

“The first thing to say is that Manchester City were outstanding, particularly in the second-half,” Neville added.

“But at the end of the game, Manchester United finished like an absolute shower. They were a disgrace in the last 25 minutes.

“The scoreline isn’t the problem. It’s the response to going 3-1 down that’s the problem. They have thrown the towel in. It’s like they have nine men.

“It’s the first time Ralf Rangnick has taken them against a proper team and they have been given a proper doing.

“There can be no complaints. City have been absolutely outstanding. But as a Manchester United fan, it’s embarrassing.”

Roy Keane echoed Neville’s view, telling Sky Sports: “We saw all of United’s shortcomings today, the way United lost the game today they stopped running, no running back, it’s really unacceptable when you play for Man United and I think they threw in the towel.

“They’re up against a top side but you have to tackle, you’ve got to run back, it was just a reflection of where the club is, they’re so far behind the other teams.

“We hear about problems with the new manager coming in but your own pride has to kick in at some stage.

“I was getting really frustrated, I can forgive mistakes but you have to put your body on the line. Wan-Bissaka, Fred, Maguire, Rashford came on, I could go on, gave up four goals and City didn’t have to be at their best at all. Shame on them.

“The worst thing that you could say about United is that they gave up. In any game if you give up, it’s unforgivable really.”