A Manchester United player has reportedly expressed dissatisfaction regarding Ruben Amorim. This criticism highlights potential concerns about Amorim’s approach or compatibility with the team. Such remarks suggest a clash of expectations or strategies, possibly indicating challenges in managing relationships within the club’s environment.
Ruben Amorim’s rotation policy has already sparked concern among at least one Manchester United player, who has privately expressed frustration over the significant number of changes the new manager has implemented during his first month in charge. Despite a promising start, Amorim’s tenure has seen mixed results, raising questions about his tactical approach and squad management.
The former Sporting Lisbon manager kicked off his Manchester United career with a draw against Ipswich, followed by encouraging wins over Bodo/Glimt and Everton. However, subsequent defeats to Arsenal and Nottingham Forest have presented a reality check, putting pressure on Amorim to stabilize the team’s performance. Throughout his first five games, he has remained committed to his preferred 3-4-3 formation but has made extensive alterations to the starting lineup and employed numerous in-game substitutions, which have drawn criticism. In total, he has made 23 changes over the last four matches, a statistic that highlights his experimentation and adaptability but has also unsettled certain players.
While some within the squad are reportedly dissatisfied, the majority of the team appears to support Amorim’s decisions. They understand that his rotations are partly driven by injuries and the need to evaluate players in real-game scenarios to determine their suitability for his system. Amorim has defended his approach, explaining that managing player fitness is paramount as the team adapts to his methodology. He cited specific examples, such as managing Harry Maguire, Tyrell Malacia, Mason Mount, and Leny Yoro, all of whom have been subject to workload limitations due to fitness concerns. According to Amorim, these changes are necessary to keep the entire squad healthy and competitive in the long term.
Amorim has also faced challenges beyond the pitch, including the sudden departure of sporting director Dan Ashworth, just 159 days after his arrival from Newcastle. Speaking ahead of Manchester United’s Europa League clash against Viktoria Plzen, Amorim acknowledged the disruption caused by Ashworth’s exit but emphasized the continued support he has received from the club’s leadership. He expressed gratitude for the backing of figures such as Omar Berrada, Jason Wilcox, and Ashworth himself during his brief tenure. While admitting the timing of Ashworth’s departure is less than ideal, Amorim remains optimistic about the club’s clear vision and long-term strategy.
These early weeks of Amorim’s tenure have been anything but smooth, marked by tactical experimentation, player unrest, and off-field challenges. However, the 39-year-old remains focused on navigating these hurdles and forging a cohesive team capable of executing his philosophy. Only time will tell if his approach yields the stability and success Manchester United fans are hoping for.