Rúben Amorim stepped into the role of Manchester United manager during a turbulent time for the club. Following a poor start to the season under Erik ten Hag, the team was struggling with low morale and lacked cohesion.
When Ten Hag departed, United found themselves in a disappointing 14th place in the Premier League table, far from the standards expected of a club with such a prestigious history and lofty ambitions.
Amorim’s first match in charge, a 1-1 draw against Ipswich Town, offered little indication of an immediate turnaround. The same issues that had plagued the squad under Ten Hag persisted, leaving many fans skeptical about Amorim’s ability to effect rapid change.
However, as he prepared for his managerial debut at Old Trafford, subtle signs of improvement began to surface. According to BBC Sport’s Shamoon Hafez, Amorim had already started implementing distinct changes that set him apart from his predecessor.
One of the initial adjustments Amorim made was revamping the team’s pre-match routines. Under Ten Hag, the warm-ups were notably informal and lacked structure, often involving players casually passing the ball or taking uncoordinated shots at goalkeeper André Onana. Amorim, on the other hand, introduced a more disciplined and purposeful approach.
His pre-match drills replicated real-game scenarios, with defenders, midfielders, and forwards practicing together in structured, tactical patterns. This not only enhanced team cohesion but also sent a clear message about Amorim’s emphasis on discipline and preparation.
The benefits of these changes were evident during Manchester United’s commanding 4-0 win over Everton. Marcus Rashford, who had struggled earlier in the season, appeared rejuvenated under Amorim’s guidance. He scored the opening goal with a precise finish, his second in as many league matches since the Portuguese coach took charge.
Former player Owen Hargreaves noted Rashford’s improved form, attributing it to Amorim’s fresh tactical approach. Meanwhile, Joshua Zirkzee also thrived, contributing a confident strike to double United’s lead. Rashford added another goal early in the second half, and Zirkzee sealed the win with his second of the match, showcasing a dominant performance.
Although Amorim’s tenure at Manchester United is still in its infancy, the progress is undeniable. His meticulous attention to detail, particularly in pre-match preparations, has started to pay dividends. Players like Rashford and Zirkzee are regaining their form, and the emphatic victory over Everton has given fans hope for the future. As the team continues to adapt to Amorim’s vision, there is growing optimism that Manchester United could soon reclaim their place among football’selite.
