Gary Neville has never been one to hold back when it comes to criticism — and his latest remarks about Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta have caused a stir. But beyond the headline-grabbing sarcasm, Neville’s comments may serve as a warning to new Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim, who surely won’t want to follow the same trajectory as Arteta.

This season’s Premier League title race has been underwhelming. Despite Liverpool eventually clinching the title under Arne Slot, they did so with little resistance. Manchester City were surprisingly off the pace, and Arsenal, though technically in contention, never truly looked like serious challengers.

Manchester United, meanwhile, endured a difficult campaign of their own, and Amorim’s domestic hopes quickly faded after his arrival. With the club set to finish in the bottom half of the table, expectations for next season are already being shaped.

Amorim will be under immense pressure to turn things around quickly — and that’s where Neville’s critique of Arsenal becomes relevant.

Neville’s Dig at Arteta: A Warning Shot?

Speaking during commentary, Neville sarcastically congratulated Mikel Arteta for "keeping his job" — implying that Arsenal’s Champions League progress has distracted from the club’s lack of domestic success. The Gunners are now five years without a major trophy, and yet, Arteta remains secure in his role.

Neville’s pointed remark raises a question: Is top-four consistency and decent European form enough to shield a manager from deeper scrutiny? For Amorim, who inherits a United side far off the pace, this could be a glimpse into his own future if results don’t come fast enough.

There’s a sense that Amorim can’t afford to settle into the same comfortable narrative that Arteta has found himself in — one where promise, potential, and near misses are enough to justify prolonged faith. At Manchester United, expectations are higher and patience runs thinner.

What’s Next for Amorim?

With the spotlight firmly on Old Trafford, Amorim will be tasked with reshaping a faltering side and restoring United’s competitiveness both in England and Europe. And unlike Arteta, he may not be afforded the luxury of time or goodwill if silverware doesn’t follow quickly.

Gary Neville’s comments may have ruffled feathers among Arsenal fans, but the underlying message is clear: in the Premier League, promise only gets you so far — eventually, you have to deliver.