The Ruben Amorim era at Manchester United is off to a mixed start, with the Portuguese manager tasked with rebuilding a squad still reeling from Erik ten Hag’s turbulent tenure.
With four wins and three losses in his first eight games, Amorim is quickly learning the weight of expectations at Old Trafford. As the club navigates a transitional phase, former United striker Teddy Sheringham has pinpointed four players Amorim can rely on to anchor his project, while questioning a key decision by his predecessor.
Sheringham’s insights come at a crucial time for Amorim, who has introduced his preferred 3-4-2-1 formation. This tactical shift highlights the manager’s intent to implement a possession-based, dynamic style, but also underscores the challenges of adapting a squad plagued by inconsistency. Amidst this backdrop, Sheringham’s comments emphasize the potential of specific individuals to thrive under Amorim’s system.
The Four Dependables
Sheringham believes Kobbie Mainoo, Amad Diallo, Rasmus Hojlund, and Harry Maguire should form the backbone of Amorim’s Manchester United. He praises Mainoo’s composure and presence in midfield, likening the youngster to some of the great midfield orchestrators United has produced. Amad, recovering from injury, is highlighted for his grit and creativity, offering hope for an attacking spark in the months ahead.
Hojlund, who has been leading the line admirably despite limited service, also receives high marks. Sheringham notes that Hojlund’s resilience and maturity make him an ideal striker for Amorim’s system. “He’s been feeding off scraps for far too long, but he’s still scoring goals. That’s the sign of a quality forward,” Sheringham said.
Interestingly, Sheringham’s endorsement of Maguire as “captain material” raises eyebrows. Despite being sidelined under Ten Hag, the former captain’s experience and leadership could prove valuable in Amorim’s defensive setup. Sheringham’s stance challenges Ten Hag’s decision to marginalize the £80m defender, reigniting debate about Maguire’s role at the club.
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The Fernandes Debate
Bruno Fernandes’ form has sparked heated discussions among fans and pundits alike. Jamie Carragher’s suggestion that United would be better off without Fernandes has been met with skepticism by Sheringham, who believes Amorim’s arrival could rejuvenate the Portuguese playmaker. “Being a fellow Portuguese, Amorim will understand how to get the best out of him. Bruno is still one of United’s most talented players and someone to build around,” Sheringham asserted.
Fernandes, who has been a consistent performer since joining from Sporting Lisbon in January 2020, appears to be regaining his form. His leadership and vision remain integral to United’s midfield, and Sheringham’s confidence in his abilities suggests that Amorim’s tactical philosophy might align well with Fernandes’ strengths.
Money Mismanagement and Rashford’s Future
United’s financial decisions have also come under scrutiny. Sheringham criticized the club for wasting resources, pointing to the swift departure of Dan Ashworth just months after a costly acquisition. “United are experts at wasting money,” he remarked, emphasizing the need for better planning and execution in the transfer market.
On the transfer front, Marcus Rashford’s future remains uncertain. Reports of a potential loan or permanent move have circulated, with Barcelona emerging as a possible destination. Rashford’s departure would mark the end of an era for a player who has been both celebrated and criticized during his time at Old Trafford.
Transfer Aspirations: A Galáctico Vision
Amorim reportedly has ambitious plans for the 2025 transfer window, with targets including Ronald Araújo, Victor Osimhen, and Tyler Dibling. While securing all three would represent a transformative coup, the feasibility of such moves remains debatable. Former United defender Jaap Stam’s endorsement of Cole Palmer as a potential signing further highlights the club’s intent to inject fresh talent into the squad.
Amorim’s Results So Far
Analyzing Amorim’s early results provides a snapshot of his managerial approach and the challenges ahead:
- Ipswich Town 1-1 Man Utd: A promising start with Marcus Rashford’s early goal but marred by defensive lapses. (Rating: 5/10)
- Man Utd 3-2 Bodo/Glimt: A thrilling comeback led by Hojlund showcased United’s fighting spirit. (Rating: 7/10)
- Man Utd 4-0 Everton: Dominant attacking display, highlighted by braces from Rashford and Joshua Zirkzee. (Rating: 8/10)
- Arsenal 2-0 Man Utd: Defensive resilience undone by set-piece goals. (Rating: 6/10)
- Man Utd 2-3 Nottingham Forest: Costly errors from Andre Onana and Lisandro Martinez proved decisive. (Rating: 4/10)
- Viktoria Plzen 1-2 Man Utd: Tactical adjustments and Hojlund’s heroics secured a vital European win. (Rating: 7/10)
- Man City 1-2 Man Utd: A dramatic derby victory featuring late goals from Fernandes and Amad. (Rating: 9/10)
- Tottenham 4-3 Man Utd: Spirited fightback fell short in the Carabao Cup quarter-final. (Rating: 6/10)
The Road Ahead
The clash against Bournemouth offers Amorim a chance to stabilize United’s form. With the Cherries having embarrassed United at Old Trafford last season, this fixture presents both a challenge and an opportunity to demonstrate progress. A win would not only boost morale but also signal that Amorim’s vision is beginning to take shape.
As United’s new era unfolds, the balance between short-term results and long-term rebuilding will define Amorim’s legacy. With Sheringham’s faith in key players and Amorim’s tactical acumen, the foundations for success are being laid. Whether the journey leads to glory or frustration will depend on how quickly the squad adapts to its new identity.
