Ruben Amorim is facing increased pressure at Manchester United, despite some reasons for optimism. The club, which once inspired fear, now seems to inspire pity, leaving the head coach with little credit.
After joining Manchester United, Amorim's start has been difficult. Four months into the job, concrete signs of progress are hard to identify, with only glimpses of resilience in a league game at Anfield and an FA Cup tie at the Emirates offering some hope. The team's performance has dipped, with points per game falling from 1.22 under Erik ten Hag to 1.00 under Amorim.
One significant issue is the overhaul required at United, a task that has historically overwhelmed managers. The squad's incoherence and a culture resistant to authority add to the challenge. Overhauling United is a monumental task, and recent history suggests it could consume managers.
Despite the challenges, there are potential positives. The attacking combination of Benjamin Sesko, Matheus Cunha, and Bryan Mbeumo, worth £200m, could potentially drive United forward. Additionally, the absence of European football this season could be beneficial, providing more time for training and tactical implementation.
However, United's shortcomings were evident in their recent match against Arsenal. Questions arise about Amorim's approach, particularly his decision to field Casemiro and Christian Eriksen in midfield against Newcastle, which led to them being overrun. If Amorim continues with his 3-4-3 formation, he needs to inject more energy into the midfield.
The situation at Manchester United is complex, with issues running deep within the club. Amorim's attempt to implement his ideas on a dysfunctional team amidst a packed schedule is proving difficult. However, Amorim's mention of relegation, even if intended to shock, highlights the gravity of the situation. The fact that such a possibility can be considered reflects the depth of the problems.
Amorim's appointment followed his successful tenure at Sporting, where he ended their 19-year title drought. However, the challenges at United are of a different scale. The task is immense, and for a manager on the rise, it represents a significant risk. If Amorim has other options, he should consider them seriously.
Overall, Amorim faces a challenging situation at Manchester United. While there are reasons for optimism, the pressure is mounting, and the need for tangible progress is becoming increasingly urgent.
