Ruben Amorim’s masterclass: How the Manchester United manager is thriving under pressure
Ruben Amorim. Photo: NBC News
Nine months into his tenure at Manchester United, Ruben Amorim has learned one undeniable truth: at Old Trafford, every move is magnified, every result dissected, and every decision scrutinized.
Amorim’s turbulent start to life at United
Since taking charge, the Portuguese manager has endured a turbulent ride; 15 wins, 16 losses, and a heartbreaking Europa League final defeat to Tottenham in Bilbao. Pre-season tours in Malaysia, Hong Kong, and the U.S. saw mixed receptions from being booed off the pitch to playing in front of 50,000 fans in the Premier League Summer Series.
“I am always under pressure to perform,” Amorim admitted ahead of Sunday’s clash with Arsenal. “It is impossible to be here and not feel it every day.”
Tactical adjustments: Less micromanaging, more leadership
To ease the burden, Amorim has implemented key changes:
– A six-man leadership group (Fernandes, Maguire, Mazraoui, Martínez, Heaton, Dalot) to oversee dressing-room dynamics.
– Reduced media duties to focus on coaching, with United’s new Carrington media room strategically placed for efficiency.
– A lighter touch compared to Ten Hag’s strict regime, fostering positivity while enforcing clear standards – timekeeping remains non-negotiable.
The Amorim Effect: A New Vibe at Carrington
Gone is the sternness of the Ten Hag era. Amorim’s jovial demeanor has resonated, with players encouraged to take initiative rather than follow rigid instructions. During pre-season in Chicago, the mood was notably upbeat—a stark contrast to last season, when Amorim confessed he “feared what might happen” before matches.
Facing Arsenal with renewed confidence
Despite past struggles, Amorim now feels better equipped: “We have more players who can change the momentum. If things aren’t working, we can adapt. That gives me confidence.” With a modern, fan-friendly approach including post-match selfies hours after games, Amorim is reshaping United’s culture. But as Sunday’s test against Arsenal looms, the real question remains: Can he turn goodwill into results?
