Daijiworld Media Network - Manchester
Manchester, Sep 15: Following yet another disappointing performance, Manchester United manager Rúben Amorim is facing increasing scrutiny as the club's early-season woes deepen. The Red Devils were handed a 0–3 defeat and have managed just one win in their first four league matches, adding to the frustration of a fanbase still reeling from last season’s 15th-place finish.
Already knocked out of the Carabao Cup in the second round by League Two side Grimsby Town, United’s lack of progress has raised alarm bells across the Premier League. Despite mounting pressure, Amorim remains firm in his commitment to his tactical philosophy.
“I understand and accept it is not a record you should have at Manchester United,” Amorim said after the game. “There are a lot of things, you have no idea what happened during these months, but I am not going to change. When I want to change my philosophy, I will change. If not, you have to change the man.”
Amorim's comments have added fuel to the fire, with pundits questioning both his tactical setup and the players’ understanding of their roles.
On BBC’s Match of the Day, former midfielder Danny Murphy was critical but pointed out the deeper issue lies not just with the system, but how it’s being implemented.
“Amorim cannot put round pegs in square holes. You’ve got to have players who understand their role. If you are a holding midfielder in that role, you have got to be able to track runners and spot dangers,” Murphy noted.
“The manager has to take responsibility, but in terms of just blaming the system? No. Palace play it well.”
The contrast in execution is telling. While other clubs successfully implement similar tactical frameworks, United seem to lack clarity and cohesion on the pitch. The result is a side that looks tactically confused, defensively fragile, and creatively disjointed.
With the season barely underway, the spotlight is already glaring on Amorim. His philosophy-driven approach, which won plaudits during his time at Sporting CP, now faces the brutal test of Premier League expectations and the relentless demands of Manchester United supporters.
Unless results improve swiftly, the calls for change may soon echo louder than the manager’s resolve.