Ruben Amorim Takes on Manchester United’s Rebuild with High Hopes and Fresh Vision

Posted : 06 November 2024

Ruben Amorim is the latest manager to take on the challenging task of restoring Manchester United’s former success, stepping in on November 11 after completing a highly successful tenure with Sporting Lisbon. The former Portugal international arrives as United's sixth permanent manager since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement in 2013, tasked with halting the team’s prolonged struggle to compete in both the Premier League and Champions League. In recent years, United has been unable to keep pace with top clubs, and this season’s dismal start—just 12 points from 10 games, placing them 13th—highlights the magnitude of the challenge ahead.

One of Amorim’s first obstacles will be instilling his own tactical approach into a team that has lacked a consistent style of play under recent managers. Erik ten Hag, despite achieving some notable wins against top clubs, struggled to impose a cohesive strategy, often relying on individual moments from a costly squad. Amorim’s success with Sporting, where he implemented an attacking, high-energy style and led the club to two league titles after nearly two decades, has earned him a place in the Premier League. His favored 3-4-3 formation may suit the current United squad, though he faces a demanding schedule with 12 matches between November 24 and January 5, limiting training time to build his philosophy.

Another pressing challenge for Amorim is revitalizing a team that has been criticized as a “graveyard” for big-money players. Despite spending over £600 million under Erik ten Hag, few signings have delivered consistent value. Since Ferguson’s departure, several managers, including David Moyes, Louis van Gaal, and Jose Mourinho, have been unable to turn the club's investment into sustained success. As former United captain Gary Neville pointed out, Manchester United has struggled to maximize the potential of high-profile players, often leading fans to question whether the issue lies with the managers themselves. Amorim must tap into the squad’s potential and break this cycle to prove he can succeed where others have failed.

Amorim will also need to reignite the sense of belief among fans who have endured years of frustration, watching Manchester City and Liverpool dominate the English football landscape. Once a fortress, Old Trafford has seen losses to rivals and mid-table teams alike, undermining its former aura. Matches against Liverpool and Tottenham resulted in heavy defeats this season, while smaller teams like Brighton and Fulham have also claimed victories at United’s home ground in recent years. Reestablishing a sense of pride and passion within the stadium will be essential for Amorim to restore the crowd’s faith in the team’s potential.

Bruno Fernandes, United's captain and a former Sporting player under Amorim, is optimistic about the change, drawing parallels to the transformative impact Amorim had at their former club. Fernandes recalls how Amorim revitalized Sporting, uniting fans and players alike, and hopes his new manager can replicate this success at Old Trafford. By inspiring belief and tapping into the talent within the squad, Amorim has the opportunity to lead United into a brighter era—if he can overcome the challenges that have plagued his predecessors.

Ruben Amorim Takes on Manchester United’s Rebuild with High Hopes and Fresh Vision

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