Rúben Amorim has inherited a massive challenge at Manchester United, taking the reins after a dreadful start to the season under Erik ten Hag. The Dutchman’s tenure left the team in disarray, with a fragile squad and players lacking both confidence and cohesion. At the time of Ten Hag’s departure, United were floundering in 14th place in the Premier League, a position that starkly contrasted with the club’s storied history and ambitions.
When Amorim made his managerial debut in the Premier League with a 1-1 draw against Ipswich, there were few signs of immediate transformation. The same struggles that plagued the team under Ten Hag seemed to linger, and many fans questioned if the Portuguese tactician could turn things around quickly. However, ahead of his first Premier League game at Old Trafford, there was a glimpse of a shift. BBC Sport reporter Shamoon Hafez observed Amorim implementing changes that marked a significant departure from his predecessor’s approach.
A New Era in Pre-Match Preparations
One of the most noticeable differences Amorim introduced was a fresh approach to the team’s pre-match warm-ups. Under Ten Hag, Manchester United’s warm-ups were often criticized for being overly simplistic. Players would casually lay off passes and take aimless shots at goalkeeper André Onana, with little tactical focus or intensity. Hafez, reporting from Old Trafford, noted how Amorim’s methodology was markedly more structured and purposeful.
“There’s a stark contrast in the warm-ups deployed by Ruben Amorim and former boss Erik ten Hag,” Hafez wrote. “The players are no longer casually firing shots at Onana. Instead, the starting lineup is set up to work in organized patterns, with defenders in bibs tasked with thwarting the advances of midfielders and attackers.”
This meticulous approach signaled a new era. Amorim emphasized tactical drills that mirrored real-game scenarios, fostering sharper connections between the defensive and attacking units. This shift wasn’t just about preparation—it was a statement of intent, showing that the Portuguese coach was ready to instill discipline, strategy, and confidence into his squad.
Early Results Begin to Show
The benefits of Amorim’s methods were on display during Manchester United’s dominant 4-0 victory over Everton. Marcus Rashford, who had struggled for form earlier in the season, looked revitalized under the new coach. The England international opened the scoring with a clinical finish, marking his second goal in two league matches under Amorim’s guidance. Former player Owen Hargreaves even commented that Rashford appeared to be thriving under the fresh management style, suggesting that Amorim was unlocking the forward’s potential.
Joshua Zirkzee, another player benefiting from Amorim’s arrival, doubled United’s lead with a confident strike. Moments after the interval, Rashford struck again to make it 3-0, showcasing his sharpness and renewed confidence. Zirkzee then capped off the performance with a second goal, sealing a resounding 4-0 victory.
A Promising Future
While Amorim’s journey at Manchester United is still in its early stages, the signs of progress are undeniable. His attention to detail, particularly in pre-match preparation, has already begun to pay dividends. Players like Rashford and Zirkzee are flourishing under his leadership, and the team’s performance against Everton offered a glimpse of