The Tough Transition for Ruben Amorim at Manchester United
Ruben Amorim, the former Sporting CP manager, has been candid about the challenges he’s faced since taking the helm at Manchester United just under four months ago. After finding success in Lisbon and catching the attention of clubs across Europe, Amorim joined the 20-time Premier League champions, a club that was initially languishing in 13th place. However, things have only gotten worse since his arrival, with a series of disappointing results leading to a significant dip in form.
An Uphill Battle
Amorim has experienced a string of defeats, suffering nine losses in his first 23 games across all competitions. These include eight league defeats, which have pushed United down to 14th place, with only 33 points from their opening 27 games this season. Despite the challenging start, former United defender and TNT Sports expert Rio Ferdinand suggested that the Old Trafford faithful seem to be giving the Portuguese coach the benefit of the doubt during this tough period.
Admitting Fault and Seeking Solutions
Amorim has not shied away from taking responsibility for the team’s underwhelming performance. "I feel that, and at the same time, I’m embarrassed by that," he told TNT Sports. "Because if you look at our performances, and you see our team sometimes on the pitch, it’s really hard for me as a coach to take a lot of positives. When you are really clear with one idea and then on the pitch you don’t see that— I see that in training but sometimes in the game we struggle with simple things—it’s clear that it’s wrong."
The Weight of Expectations
In a candid conversation with Ferdinand, Amorim delved deeper into the reasons behind the team’s struggles. "I don’t know, it’s my fault," he admitted. "I think we are so nervous sometimes in the game and you can feel it in the small things. In the way that we move sometimes, the understanding of the game, especially at Old Trafford. The environment, I feel like sometimes that the players are in the dressing room and we go to warm up and we go inside to start the game, I feel that the air is heavy. These kinds of things, I think we show a lot in the games."
A Unique Coaching Philosophy
Amorim’s approach to coaching is rooted in his belief in the importance of training. Having guided Sporting CP to two league titles, he has a track record of success. "I think training is everything. I feel like I’m not a typical manager that you have here [in England], I’m a coach," Amorim revealed. "I need to be on the pitch, to also be happy, to transmit my positivity, I need to be on the pitch. If I’m not there, it’s really hard."
The Long Road Ahead
Manchester United is closing in on 12 years without a Premier League trophy, a drought that began since Sir Alex Ferguson’s final season at the helm. The club has seen six permanent managers come and go since then, each failing to deliver the elusive 21st title. As Amorim navigates these challenges, his unique coaching style and commitment to training may prove crucial in turning the tide. Despite the current difficulties, there is a sense of patience and support from the fans, hoping that Amorim can lead the team back to its former glory.
