Ruben Amorim’s Manchester United Debut: A Glimpse of the Mountain Ahead
For a brief, glorious 81 seconds, it looked like Ruben Amorim’s Manchester United reign was off to a dream start. Marcus Rashford, the face of both United’s struggles and its hopes, found the back of the net just two minutes into the game against Ipswich Town. The traveling fans at Portman Road erupted, and for a moment, it felt like the dawn of a new era.
But football, as we know, is rarely that simple. Reality came crashing down, and Amorim got a harsh introduction to the enormity of the task he’s taken on as Manchester United’s sixth manager since the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson retired. A stunning equalizer from Ipswich’s Omari Hutchinson in the 43rd minute and a series of nervy moments later in the game left United clinging to a 1-1 draw. It was a sobering reminder of the deep-rooted issues that have plagued the club for years.
Amorim’s Frustration Boils Over
By the time the final whistle blew, Amorim’s frustration was palpable. The Portuguese coach, who arrived at Old Trafford with a glowing reputation after leading Sporting CP to two league titles in three years, was seen furiously gesturing at substitute Joshua Zirkzee. The forward, brought on in the second half, seemed more interested in strolling around the pitch than making an impact in the dying moments of the game. Amorim’s message was clear: urgency and effort are non-negotiable.
“I think my players were thinking too much,” Amorim said post-match. “The players were too stuck, thinking, ‘Where should I be?’ We will work, and with more time, they will be clear.”
It’s a fair point. Amorim has had just a few days to work with his new squad, and implementing his philosophy will take time. But the lack of energy and decisiveness on display against Ipswich highlighted just how much work lies ahead.
Old Problems, New Manager
Amorim’s debut was a mixed bag. On the one hand, there were signs of progress. The players seemed to have a better understanding of their roles and responsibilities, a stark contrast to the disjointed performances that marked the end of Erik ten Hag’s tenure. On the other hand, the same old issues—lack of energy in midfield, defensive frailties, and an inability to control games—were all too evident.
Injuries didn’t help. Amorim was forced to field a makeshift back three, with full-back Noussair Mazraoui lining up alongside Matthijs de Ligt and Jonny Evans due to the absences of Lisandro Martínez, Harry Maguire, and Leny Yoro. In midfield, the 32-year-old duo of Casemiro and Christian Eriksen struggled to provide the dynamism needed to dominate the game, with neither Manuel Ugarte nor Kobbie Mainoo fit enough to start.
As a result, Ipswich, managed by former United assistant Kieran McKenna, were able to dictate large portions of the game. Liam Delap came close to giving the home side the lead on two occasions, only to be denied by crucial saves from André Onana. United’s forward line, aside from Rashford’s early strike, was largely ineffective.
Fans’ Banner Highlights Expectations
Before the game, United fans unfurled a banner that read, “Good Luck Ruben Amorim – Make Our Team Great Again.” It was a heartfelt message, but also a stark reminder of the weight of expectations on Amorim’s shoulders. Turning this team around won’t be easy, and the Portuguese coach knows it.
“I think we have to understand and think and be pragmatic that these guys had two to three days to train to change so much,” Amorim said. “It’s hard for the players in three days to cope with everything. I know it’s frustrating for the fans, but we are changing so much in this moment with a lot of games. We are going to suffer for a long period, and we will try to win games, but this will take time.”
What Needs to Change?
Amorim’s preferred 3-4-2-1 formation brought him success at Sporting, but it’s clear that this United squad isn’t yet equipped to execute his vision. Here are some of the key areas that need addressing:
- Fitness: Amorim has already acknowledged that his players need to be better “physically.” Improving fitness levels will be crucial to implementing his high-energy style of play.
- Midfield Dynamism: The lack of legs in midfield was glaring against Ipswich. Getting players like Ugarte and Mainoo fit and firing will be a priority.
- Defensive Stability: Injuries have left United short at the back, but even when fully fit, the defense needs to be more organized and resilient.
Amorim made five substitutions in the second half in an attempt to change the game, but the impact was minimal. It’s a clear sign that the squad needs reinforcements, particularly players who fit his system and philosophy.
The Road Ahead
Amorim’s debut may not have ended in victory, but it served as a valuable reality check. The 39-year-old coach has the personality and self-confidence to succeed at Old Trafford, but he’ll need time and patience to mold this team in his image. For now, fans will have to temper their expectations and trust the process.
Forget the 81-second sugar rush. The real Manchester United—the one that needs to change—was on display for the remaining 88 minutes. And for Ruben Amorim, the journey to make this team great again has only just begun.
Originally Written by: Mark Ogden
