Manchester United fans have not had much to cheer about since legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson stepped down from his role in 2013.
The club has won a handful of trophies since then, but are no longer the all-conquering force they were when Ferguson was in the dugout.
Several managers have tried to follow in his footsteps, but have failed to come anywhere near to the Scotsman’s achievements as United boss.
Ruben Amorim is the latest manager to be tasked with delivering success at United, and there have been signs that he laying some solid foundations.
However, if Amorim is turn the Red Devils into a force again, he will need unerring support from the fans. Read on as we take a closer look.
Fans share a deep emotional bond with United
Dedicated United fans have a strong connection to the club. Results on the pitch can significantly impact their mood and self-esteem.
If United lose they may feel sad or even angry. This bond is so deep that every match can alter fans’ perception of themselves and their team.
Winners feel good about themselves – losers do not. They primarily feel frustration, anger and rising levels of self-doubt.
This is why the Red Devils are so close to the hearts of so many fans worldwide, and why emotions run high after every game.
How fan sentiment changes after each match
United fans are generally optimistic following a big win. Conversely, a defeat can result in disappointment and criticism.
The club’s board, manager and players end up in the firing line. Anger inside the stadium and vitriol on social media are among the ways they express themselves.
The feelings of angst increase if the team loses a big game. A defeat against Liverpool or Manchester City can take longer to recover from than a loss against other clubs.
Victories also trigger a wave of emotions, some of which can last for weeks. These ups and downs ultimately define what it means to be a United fan.
Why fan sentiment matters for United
Managers and players often talk about how important fan support is for their motivation. Backing from supporters can make a massive difference to supporters.
This concept is known as the ‘12th man effect’, where the fans become an extra player. Under Ferguson, this element was commonplace.
United were renowned for their vociferous support home and away, and the noise generated by the fans often hauled the team over the line in tight games.
This mindset is not as prevalent as it once was among the collective United fanbase, and needs to return if the club is to be successful under Amorim.
Fan sentiment and its effect on football betting odds
Intriguingly, fans can impact football betting odds. Leading bookmakers understand that the fans’ mood can affect football betting odds in several ways.
A fervent home crowd can swing a game, which is why home advantage is built into the odds. However, there are times the odds do not fully factor in the fan factor.
This creates possibilities for smart bettors who know how important fan sentiment is. They can capitalise on opportunities to profit from their wagering.
Emotional fans tend to bet with their hearts instead of their heads. They overvalue their chances of winning, possibly betting more than they otherwise would have, which shifts the odds.
On the flip side, a loss can decrease confidence and change betting approaches in the other direction. This underscores the extent to which fan sentiment influences betting odds.
The final word
United fans must collectively recognise how their engagement with the team can impact performances, results and betting outcomes.
Amorim needs their backing to deliver the success the club craves. Wild negative reactions to setbacks will not help United achieve their aims.
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