Rúben Amorim’s arrival at Manchester United marks the dawn of a new chapter for a club desperate to rediscover its identity. The 39-year-old Portuguese tactician, nicknamed “The Poet” by Cristiano Ronaldo, has been handed the monumental task of rejuvenating a team that has struggled to find its rhythm this season. Sitting a dismal 14th in the Premier League table following the dismissal of Erik ten Hag, United now looks to Amorim to breathe life into a fractured squad and re-establish the club’s once-feared character and unity.
Amorim has made it clear that his immediate focus is not on tactics or formations but on cultivating a deeper sense of culture and purpose within the team. Speaking to United’s official media, he outlined his vision with characteristic candor and passion. “I want to say beautiful things to you, but I’m really honest. What I can say is that you will see an idea. You might like it or not, but you will see an idea. You will see positioning. You will see something—something that shows what we want to achieve.”
For Amorim, this means prioritizing principles over strategy in his initial days at the club. Despite having only two training sessions with the squad before their match against Ipswich Town next Sunday, the Portuguese coach is determined to instill the core values that have historically defined Manchester United. He believes that the character and mindset of the players must form the bedrock of any tactical approach, emphasizing, “When I think of Manchester United, it’s not about formations. It’s about the character of the players, the way they perceive the club. That’s what we need to focus on before anything else—before the pressing, before the tactics.”
A Vision Rooted in Identity
Amorim’s focus on identity rather than immediate tactical shifts demonstrates his understanding of United’s predicament. The club has endured a turbulent few years, with managerial changes, inconsistent performances, and an apparent disconnect between the players and fans. Amorim’s philosophy, which prioritizes unity and shared purpose, seeks to address these issues at their core. “The priority now is creating principles, identity, and the character that defined this club in the past,” he remarked, signaling his intention to revive the traditions that once made United great.
A Charismatic Leader
Amorim’s ability to forge emotional connections with his players is already well-documented. His tenure at Sporting Lisbon not only yielded silverware but also saw him build a close-knit squad capable of exceeding expectations. Former United captain Bruno Fernandes, who worked under Amorim at Sporting, has praised his new manager’s leadership qualities and the camaraderie he fosters within a team. This emotional bond was evident when Sporting players openly expressed their sorrow at Amorim’s departure, a testament to the respect and admiration he commands.
Reflecting on his leadership style, Amorim shared, “It’s a funny thing because I like to speak—not too much—but when I speak, I think I speak from the heart.” His authenticity and ability to inspire could be key in uniting the United dressing room, which has often appeared divided under previous regimes.
Hungry for Success
The allure of Manchester United was too great for Amorim to resist, driven by the club’s rich history and passionate fanbase. “I feel this is the place I want to be because the people here are hungry for success. You can sense the potential to be part of something special,” he admitted. With a proven track record at Sporting, where he ended a 20-year title drought and secured league championships in 2021 and 2024, Amorim now has the chance to write a new chapter in his managerial career at one of football’s most storied institutions.
A Challenging Start
Amorim’s first test as United manager comes against Ipswich Town next Sunday, a match that offers an opportunity to unveil the first glimpses of his philosophy. Shortly after, a Europa League clash against Bodo/Glimt at Old Trafford on November 28 and a crucial Premier League fixture against Everton on December 1 will further test his ability to implement change swiftly.
Building Toward Glory
For United fans, Amorim represents hope. His emphasis on unity, character, and a clear identity aligns with the club’s traditions, providing a blueprint for sustained success. While challenges undoubtedly lie ahead, his arrival offers a renewed sense of optimism that Manchester United can once again become the force it once was. With his charismatic leadership and poetic vision, Amorim seems poised to guide the Red Devils toward a brighter future. The journey begins now, and all eyes will be on Old Trafford as th
e Amorim era takes shape.