Ruben Amorim, the newly appointed Head Coach of Manchester United, finds himself at a pivotal crossroads. Right now, he’s focused on preparing his side for a crucial league match against Chelsea. With mounting pressure from club legends and a disappointing performance record, Amorim desperately needs a positive result to ease the growing concerns surrounding his leadership. Since his appointment in November last year, Amorim has maintained a steadfast commitment to his footballing philosophy, despite recent struggles on the pitch.
One thing they knew for certain was the exact style of play that Amorim would implement at the club. That’s led him to almost defiantly go with a three centre-backs system. We take a look back at this strategic decision that has pleased many and angered many more since it’s announcement. As his team enters a pivotal match against Chelsea, the effectiveness of this approach will be put to the test.
Support and Belief Amidst Challenges
Despite all the adversity, Amorim’s coaching staff continues to believe in their tactics. They’re optimistic, because they know that the system can produce great outcomes if the right players learn to play the right game. With injuries ruling out key creative talents such as Mason Mount and Matheus Cunha, the squad’s depth is already being tested. The effect these injuries have had recently is tremendous, as they have played a huge part in the team’s problems this season.
It is no surprise, then, that club legends like Wayne Rooney, Roy Keane, and Gary Neville have all publicly decried Amorim’s predicament. They argue that the pressure on him is increasing, given that the results continue to disappoint expectations. Even in the face of this outside pressure, Amorim has vowed to never change his footballing philosophy – and he shouldn’t.
“When I want to change my philosophy, I will change,” – Ruben Amorim
His refusal to pivot from this narrow approach has opened up a fierce counter-campaign. Supporters and analysts are split on whether this pigheadedness is a benefit or detriment to the team’s success.
Record Low Performance
Last season was a tough one for Amorim to deal with. His team finished with its lowest points total in Premier League history and the most defeats in a single season. As such, these statistics have sent rustlings of alarm through the fanbase. Former players, alums, and fans are now openly wondering about his long-term viability as head coach.
Amorim himself acknowledges the need for improvement. He sees the pain of the fans as they watch their team lose week after week. He claims his pain is worse than yours. His promise to make things right is still very much in action, but the clock is ticking.
“If not, you have to change the man,” – Ruben Amorim
This statement points to the importance of the upcoming game against Chelsea. Another defeat would do even more to threaten his future at the club and ramp up the clamoring for his departure.
Adapting to the Premier League
Complicating Amorim’s life has been the integration of new signings such as Benjamin Sesko. The young forward is enjoying a breakout year, settling into his new Premier League home under Amorim’s tutelage. His development will be key for the Wizards to see how good they can be in the future.
Supporters are understandably excited to see how these pieces fall into place this Saturday against Chelsea. A strong performance would not only deliver some much-needed points, but take a little weight off Amorim’s burdened shoulders. On the flip side, more malaise could put Stevens’ coaching approach and game-day decisions under even greater magnifying glasses.
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