Leny Yoro has provided fresh insight into Ruben Amorim’s demanding approach at Manchester United, revealing how the manager enforces high standards and discipline among his players.
Following Marcus Rashford’s loan departure to Aston Villa, Yoro highlighted that Amorim does not tolerate laziness and makes it clear that only the most committed will succeed at Old Trafford. The 19-year-old defender, who joined United from Lille for £52million in the summer, described how Amorim’s strict expectations are integral to his managerial style.
Yoro, in a candid appearance on the Rio Ferdinand Presents Podcast, explained how the Portuguese boss has been forthright about his expectations for players both on and off the pitch.
Amorim’s no-nonsense approach is particularly focused on training, where he demands intense dedication. Yoro noted that the manager’s philosophy is simple: “You play like you train.” For Amorim, consistent effort in training is key to succeeding in matches.
The young defender emphasized that those who don’t put in the hard work during training face serious consequences. “If you are lazy in training, he won’t like you – he’ll kill you,” Yoro said, making it clear that a lack of discipline will not be tolerated. This philosophy extends beyond the pitch as well, with Amorim insisting that players remain punctual and disciplined outside the game to maintain the necessary focus for winning trophies.
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Despite arriving at United amid high expectations, Yoro admitted that the pressure has been immense, especially after the hefty price tag attached to his move. However, he has embraced the challenge, employing the help of a personal analyst to assist with his preparation.
Yoro has been receiving detailed clips of opposition strikers to enhance his understanding of their movements and improve his defensive intelligence. “I have one person who’s doing really a lot of clips on the striker for me to know,” he explained. This additional work reflects Yoro’s determination to prove his worth at Manchester United, especially after struggling with injuries early in his tenure.
Social media, however, has only added to the pressure for Yoro, who confessed that he avoids checking his online presence to maintain his mental focus. The young defender explained how he stays away from Twitter and Instagram, recognizing that while positive comments might boost his confidence, negative feedback could undermine it.
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“If I see something bad, it’s just like this – I cannot change anything,” he shared. By detaching from the constant cycle of social media, Yoro has found solace in the training ground, where he can focus solely on his football and block out the external noise.
Yoro’s mindset reflects the high stakes at Manchester United, where the expectations are constantly set sky-high for new signings. Yet, his approach to handling pressure is mature for his age. The teenager has learned to compartmentalize the external chatter, choosing instead to concentrate on the task at hand. “My safe place was the training ground, on the pitch,” he said, underlining the importance of focusing on football as his escape from the pressures of his £52million move and the media scrutiny that comes with it.
As Marcus Rashford’s departure highlighted the rigid nature of Amorim’s demands, it’s clear that the manager is determined to instill a culture of discipline and hard work at Manchester United. For Yoro, adapting to these expectations has been part of his journey, and while the pressure remains, he is committed to fulfilling his role at the club. The defender’s focus on development, both in terms of his on-field performances and his mental approach, suggests he is ready to live up to the demands set by his manager and prove his worth at one of the world’s biggest clubs.
