Ruben Amorim Aims To Rebuild Manchester United.
Newly-appointed Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim has described the club as “a massive club but not a massive team,” underscoring the challenges he faces in restoring the team’s status as a Premier League contender.
Since Amorim’s arrival on 11 November, following the dismissal of Erik ten Hag, United have shown improvement but remain far from their glory days. Their recent 2-0 defeat at Arsenal left them 13th in the Premier League table, offering a sobering reminder of the work ahead.
“We’re not one of the best teams in the league,” Amorim admitted. “But in our past, our club is maybe the best one in the league. That creates a problem—we must focus on the details to improve as a team.”
Hard Work At The Core
Amorim has emphasised effort and fitness as the foundation for success, acknowledging criticism that United players have lacked intensity in recent years. He faces the added challenge of a congested fixture schedule, with 11 games in 37 days limiting opportunities to develop the team’s fitness and cohesion.
“If we want to win the Premier League, we have to run like mad dogs,” said Amorim. “Even the best XI on the planet will win nothing without running.”
Acknowledging the Fans
Amorim has also stressed the importance of connecting with fans, particularly after losses. Following criticism of Marcus Rashford for leaving the pitch before acknowledging travelling supporters after the Arsenal defeat, Amorim stated: “We have to applaud the fans, especially when we lose. Everyone has to do it. It has to be like that.”
Handling Complex Issues
The coach also addressed the decision not to wear rainbow tracksuits for the Premier League’s Rainbow Laces campaign, after Moroccan defender Noussair Mazraoui declined on religious grounds. Amorim supported the team’s decision to show unity by forgoing the tracksuits entirely.
“There are three difficult things to manage: club values, religion, and the group,” Amorim explained. “The majority of players believe in one thing, but they saw one guy alone and decided to stand together. This club believes in and fights for equality, but we must also respect Nous’ religion and culture.”
Amorim’s tenure is still in its early days, but his focus on discipline, effort, and respect offers a foundation for United’s journey back to the top of English football.