Rúben Amorim Sets Ruthless Standard as Manchester United’s Rebuild Begins
As Manchester United prepares for their upcoming pre-season tour across Asia, manager Rúben Amorim has laid down a firm and uncompromising foundation for what promises to be a no-nonsense rebuild.
After the club endured its most disappointing Premier League campaign in over three decades—finishing 15th with 18 losses and missing out on European football—Amorim is signaling that a major transformation is underway.
Brought in during November 2024 to replace Erik ten Hag, Amorim inherited a squad that struggled both mentally and tactically.
His preferred 3-4-3 formation didn’t quite take off at Old Trafford, partly due to the group’s poor adaptability and a string of injuries to key figures like Lisandro Martínez, Amad Diallo, and Diogo Dalot.
The season ended on a low note with a narrow 1–0 defeat to Tottenham in the Europa League final, capping off a year to forget.
Amorim has not held back when addressing the state of the team. After a dismal 3–1 loss to Brighton, he infamously called United “maybe the worst team in the club’s history.”
Though he later clarified that it was also a reflection of his own shortcomings as a new manager, the message still hit hard.
He believes improvement will only come through shared sacrifice, discipline, and honesty—core values he’s determined to instill.
Already, his strict approach has seen him sideline high-profile stars like Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho before the Manchester derby, citing poor training performances.
This move underscored his belief that no player is beyond accountability, regardless of name or status.
This summer’s training at Carrington will be crucial. Amorim is demanding intense physical preparation, sharper tactical awareness, and improved fitness to fit his high-octane 3-4-3 style that brought him success at Sporting CP.
Creativity levels have dipped significantly since Ten Hag’s tenure, and defensive lapses—especially involving goalkeeper André Onana and slower center-backs—remain a major concern.
In terms of transfers, Amorim is eyeing “one or two big names,” with Wolves’ Matheus Cunha and Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo on his radar.
To fund those deals, players like Rashford, Casemiro, or even Garnacho may be shown the door.
Meanwhile, youngsters such as Kobbie Mainoo, Sekou Koné, and Godwill Kukonki could be given increased responsibilities.
With fewer matches next season—roughly 40 to 50—Amorim wants to use the extra time to drill the squad in set pieces, build physical strength, and tighten discipline.
His unfiltered criticism has split the dressing room, but insiders from his Sporting days say this approach wins loyalty in the long run.
Rúben Amorim has made it clear: Manchester United’s revival will come at a cost. Those who can’t keep up may not have a place in his vision.
