protecting His Family and Mental Health
Manchester United’s manager Ruben Amorim has taken a firm stance on social media, opting to avoid it altogether to protect his family from the barrage of online abuse that football managers often face. Despite being one of the most targeted managers in the Premier League, Amorim remains resilient. Research has shown that he, along with Liverpool’s Arne Slot and Newcastle’s Eddie Howe, frequently receives abusive messages. A BBC investigation revealed that over 2,000 “extremely abusive” social media posts targeting players and managers in the Premier League and Women’s Super League were made in just one weekend in November. These messages often include death and rape threats, highlighting the dark side of fan engagement. When asked about his approach to dealing with such abuse, Amorim stated, “It’s normal in any profession when you are exposed to it. I don’t read it. I protect myself.”
Navigating the Media and Public Opinion
Amorim’s strategy extends beyond social media; he also avoids the opinions of former players who work as pundits in the media. He explained, “I don’t watch TV when they are talking about Manchester United, not because I don’t agree—most of the times I do—but it’s a way of me being healthy.” As a coach, he feels that his own emotions and thoughts are sufficient without the added weight of external opinions. “My feeling as a coach is enough. I don’t need other feelings. The only way—there is no other way—is to protect myself,” he emphasized. This approach underscores his commitment to maintaining mental and emotional well-being in a high-pressure environment.
A Rocky Start and Recent Progress
Amorim’s tenure at Old Trafford has had its share of challenges. Last season, United finished 15th, their lowest position since the 1973/74 season, a result that put the club and its manager under immense scrutiny. This season started poorly as well, with United being knocked out of the Carabao Cup by League Two side Grimsby. However, the team has shown significant improvement recently, currently sitting in seventh place in the Premier League. The turnaround is a testament to Amorim’s leadership and the players’ resilience. As the team prepares for their upcoming match against West Ham, there is a renewed sense of optimism and determination.
The Temptation of Financial Gain
Despite the financial benefits that social media engagement could bring, Amorim remains steadfast in his decision to stay away. He acknowledged the potential earnings he is foregoing, saying, “I lose money from sponsors. On Instagram, I could earn a lot of money [but] for my protection and my family’s, living a normal life, it is not worth some more dollars or pounds.” This statement reflects his prioritization of personal and family well-being over financial gain. Amorim is acutely aware of the toll that online abuse can take and is determined to shield himself and his loved ones from it.
Preparing for West Ham
As United gears up for their Premier League match against West Ham, Amorim is dealing with some fitness concerns. Key players Benjamin Sesko and Harry Maguire will definitely be unavailable, and two other players are facing late fitness tests, though Amorim has not disclosed who they are. However, the team will be bolstered by the return of Matheus Cunha, the Brazilian attacking midfielder who has been sidelined for the past two matches due to a knock. Despite scoring just once since his summer move from Wolves, Amorim is confident in Cunha’s potential. “He has more levels to go,” Amorim stated. “He’s at a different club, different pressure, he was struggling because he was not scoring. He was thinking too much about the numbers, but the influence he has in the team is important to us.”
A Focus on the Team’s Future
Amorim’s leadership and the team’s recent performances offer a glimmer of hope for Manchester United’s fans. The manager’s focus on mental health and the well-being of his players and family demonstrates a holistic approach to football. As the team looks to build on their recent success, the upcoming match against West Ham will be a critical test. Amorim’s commitment to protecting himself and his family from the toxicity of social media is a refreshing stance in a sport where such abuse is increasingly common. With a strong and united team, Manchester United is poised to make a significant impact in the Premier League.
