Ruben Amorim
Ruben Amorim, appointed as Erik ten Hag’s successor at Manchester United midway through last season, has faced significant challenges at Old Trafford. The Portuguese coach’s tenure has been marked by a difficult start to the new season, prompting discussions about his future at the club. Recent comments by Paul Merson have added fuel to the fire, suggesting Amorim might have been a better fit for Chelsea due to his tactical style.
Paul Merson said: “Ruben Amorim, the way he wants to play, is a worry. He won’t change. He’ll look at it and say ‘I’ve got where I am today by playing the way I play’, using three at the back and high wing-backs. He would have been a perfect fit for Chelsea. They’ve got world-class wing-backs in Reece James and Malo Gusto. They’ve got the best holding midfield player in the league in Moises Caicedo. It would fit the players. You look at Man Utd and this system does not suit the squad they’ve got at all. The two wing-backs are nowhere near good enough. And they are a big part of this formation working. No legs in midfield.”
Ruben Amorim said: “Guys, I understand that and I accept. It is not a record you should have in Manchester United. There are a lot of things – you have no idea what happened during these months – but I accept that. I am not going to change. When I want to change my philosophy, I will change. If not, you have to change the man. We will talk about that every game that we lose. I don’t believe in that, in the system, or whatever. I believe in my way and I am going to play my way until I want to change. My message is that I am going to give everything. I will do everything, always thinking about what is best for the club. That was always the same message. It is not my decision, the rest (on whether United change manager). Until I am here, I will do my best. I really want to win games.”
Amorim’s insistence on sticking to his tactical philosophy, which includes a three-at-the-back formation with high wing-backs, has been a point of contention. Merson’s remarks highlight the mismatch between Amorim’s preferred style and the current Manchester United squad, particularly the inadequacy of the wing-backs and the lack of midfield mobility. This has led to speculation about whether Amorim’s approach can succeed at United or if a change in management is imminent.
The pressure on Amorim has intensified following Manchester United’s recent defeat to Manchester City. Despite the challenges, Amorim remains committed to his methods and emphasizes his dedication to the club’s success. However, with the team’s current struggles, the conversation about his future at Old Trafford is likely to continue.
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