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Early Days, Tough Times
Ruben Amorim, the new head coach of Manchester United, is already feeling the heat just over a month into his tenure. With only three wins out of his first seven matches, the Portuguese manager finds himself under scrutiny after a disappointing 2-0 defeat to Wolves on Boxing Day. This latest loss marked the third consecutive defeat for United, leaving them languishing in 14th place in the Premier League and out of the Carabao Cup.
Can the Manager Survive the Axe?
Despite his recent appointment, Amorim is acutely aware that job security is a fleeting luxury in football management. He openly admitted that he could be sacked if results do not improve, stating, “The manager of Manchester United cannot be comfortable. If we don’t win, every manager is in danger.” His honesty reflects the high stakes at Old Trafford, where expectations are sky-high and the pressure to perform is relentless.
Time Needed for Change
Amorim took charge on November 11, following Erik ten Hag’s departure, with United paying a hefty €11m (£9.15m) to bring him in from Sporting Lisbon. However, Amorim is realistic about the challenges ahead, emphasising that his vision for United requires time to take shape. “The idea needs time. I said this will be a tough moment, and we are far from the end of this moment,” he explained, urging focus on the upcoming fixtures rather than dwelling on past performances.
Defensive Woes Highlighted
The current state of United’s defence is alarming, particularly their ability to handle set pieces. In their recent match against Wolves, they conceded yet another goal directly from a corner—marking the second time in just a week that they have fallen victim to this weakness. With nine goals conceded from corners this season, they share the unwanted record for the most in the league.
Rashford’s Omission Raises Eyebrows
Amorim’s decision-making is under the microscope too, particularly regarding the omission of star player Marcus Rashford. When questioned about Rashford’s absence from the squad, Amorim remarked, “If he’s not here, you can make your mind up.” This comment has sparked debates among fans and pundits alike about the manager’s approach and the criteria he uses for team selection.
Upcoming Challenges Loom Large
Looking ahead, United face an uphill battle with their next match against an in-form Newcastle side on December 30. The absence of captain Bruno Fernandes, who received a red card in the Boxing Day clash, adds to the challenges Amorim must navigate. Following Newcastle, they will face tough fixtures against Liverpool and Arsenal, making the next few weeks critical for Amorim’s future and United’s season.
Long-Term Vision or Short-Term Fix?
While Amorim has a long-term vision for the club, the pressing need for immediate results cannot be ignored. His comments about taking things “day by day” suggest a focus on gradual improvement, but fans will be hoping for more tangible progress sooner rather than later. The current atmosphere at Old Trafford is one of uncertainty, with many questioning whether Amorim’s strategies can turn the tide for a club that has struggled for consistency in recent years.
Final Thoughts
As Ruben Amorim navigates the turbulent waters of managing Manchester United, the stakes have never been higher. With a series of challenging matches on the horizon and a team struggling to find form, the coming days will be pivotal. Will Amorim be able to instil his philosophy and secure the results needed to calm the storm, or will he find himself on the managerial merry-go-round that has plagued the club in recent times? Only time will tell.
