Manchester United will open a new chapter in the club’s storied history after November’s international break, with Ruben Amorim ready to embark on his Old Trafford career.
A 2-1 defeat at West Ham United in late October was a step too far for former manager Erik ten Hag.
Following one of the most frustrating displays live football on TV has to offer, the Red Devils axed the Dutch tactician amid the club’s worst-ever start in the Premier League.
Ten Hag’s interim successor, Ruud van Nisterlooy, fared well during his brief stint in the dugout, leading United to a spirited draw against Chelsea and a thumping 3-0 win against Leicester City.
However, the former Dutch striker will make way for Amorim, who insists his new side ‘will be ready’ when they face Ipswich Town on November 24 via the Daily Mirror.
Amorim will make his touchline debut at Portman Road against the newly promoted outfit, and it stands to reason he’ll expect to get his tenure off to a flyer.
The highly-rated 39-year-old must hit the ground running from day one to salvage United’s season, with his new employers stranded in the lower reaches after 11 rounds.
Amorim magic
After leading Sporting CP to their second Primeira Liga title in four years last season, Amorim oversaw 11 wins from as many league outings this season.
His former club, Sporting Braga, nearly spoiled his perfect record in his farewell match, yet Spoting overhauled a two-goal deficit in a scintillating 4-2 away win.
In addition to Sporting’s brilliant domestic performances, they showcased their quality in Europe, most recently dispatching Manchester City 4-1 in a memorable UEFA Champions League victory.
That’s the winning mentality Amorim must translate to the Old Trafford dressing room if he is to turn United’s fortunes around.
Known for his tactical flexibility and ability to get the best out of young talents, Amorim arrives with a reputation for instilling a resilient, attacking mindset in his teams.
His first assignment will be to galvanise a downtrodden squad that has struggled with inconsistency and low morale.
European finish well within reach
Not even the most optimistic Man Utd fans expect Amorim to guide United back to the title race in his first season in charge.
Table-topping Liverpool already boast a significant 13-point lead, making it a lost cause.
However, a sought-after Champions League return is a realistic target.
Despite lamenting a dismal win ratio of only 36% after the first 11 Premier League rounds (W4, D3, L4), the Red Devils remain within striking distance of the coveted European spots.
With third-placed Chelsea only four points away, there’s still plenty to play for as Man Utd seek to claw their way back into contention for Champions League qualification.
A string of positive results could quickly transform United’s season, with the competition for European qualification tighter than ever.
Meanwhile, Amorim’s arrival brings renewed hope and an opportunity to reset, with Bruno Fernandes highlighting his countryman’s standout quality in his recent interview with the Daily Mail.
Fernandes insists Amorim’s ‘connection’ with the players is what sets him apart, emphasising the importance of healthy relationships in building a successful team.
Prediction
If Amorim can quickly implement his philosophy and ignite a response from the squad, United’s European ambitions remain well within reach.
His highly anticipated tenure could be the beginning of a new, more prosperous chapter at Old Trafford.
With Arsenal up the creek without a paddle and Tottenham Hotspur traditionally inconsistent, Chelsea could be United’s fiercest rivals for the fourth spot.
Amorim may need some time to overhaul Man Utd’s tactical set-up, but no one can put it past the Portuguese genius to lead the Red Devils to a top-four finish this term.
Man.Utd made a wrong decision on sending off Ruud Van Nistelrooy as he was doing well and managed to help the team with wins together with this Manager and him as assistant Manager as he knew and worked with the players for a longer time than this Manager and also being an ex player of this club. Together, they would have made this team much more stronger.