Darren Fletcher, the interim manager of Manchester United, sent a clear signal that many players must prove they deserve the Red Devils shirt after a home defeat to Brighton resulted in their elimination from the FA Cup.
On 12 Jan 2026 GMT+7, Darren Fletcher, Manchester United's interim manager, warned several players they must seriously prove themselves if they want a future with the club following a 1-2 home defeat to Brighton in the FA Cup. This loss knocked the Red Devils out and left them with their fewest matches played in a season in 111 years.
Fletcher, who has managed the team for only two matches as interim coach, admitted he has "learned a lot" about this squad and did not hesitate to point out the problems that are undermining the team.
"I think everyone has seen the players' fragility, but they need to respond," Fletcher said.
"Confidence is incredibly powerful in football, and when you lack it, you have to dig deep within yourself."
The former Scotland international midfielder emphasized that all responsibility lies with the players themselves, not the coach or external circumstances, challenging his squad to show they still have enough drive for the rest of the season.
"It's up to them. They must ensure there is still something to play for this season. This team is still good enough to succeed, but they have to really dig deep."
Although Fletcher was part of the coaching staff during the 2021-22 season when Manchester United's performance sharply declined in the second half, he believes the current squad has enough potential to avoid repeating that fate if they show their "true identity" in tough moments.
"True character is revealed in difficult times. We've learned this from past players, and it's the same with this group."
"If you don't want to be part of Manchester United's future, I don't think you should be here, and ultimately you won't be."
Fletcher did not hide his disappointment with the many negative records indicating this season might collapse, but he stressed the team cannot hide behind those figures. The most important goal is securing a Champions League spot.
"This is not the level of Manchester United, and it is not something to accept."
"We have to move forward, and the Champions League is crucial—for the club, the players, and attracting new talent."
"Sometimes it's not pretty, especially when you lack confidence, but you have to roll up your sleeves, work hard, and stand together as a team."