Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim has been on the job for less than a week, but the club’s permanent successor to Erik ten Hag is already making a positive impact.
Amorim arrived in Manchester at the start of the international break, familiarising himself with his surroundings before properly getting to work this past week.
He has since given a first interview with club media and later spoke to external reporters at hisfirst press conference, both of which have been heavily analysed. So far, reviews are good.
With no major squad overhaul expected in upcoming transfer windows as United look to break the pattern of expensive rebuilding projects, Amorim’s biggest impact will be on the training pitch as he primarily seeks to unlock the potential in the group at his disposal.
Fans have been given a glimpse into what his sessions are like after the club shared highlights of his first time leading training on Monday. Amorim was at the heart of it.
The Independent report that players have been “impressed” by what they have experienced, finding instructions to be clear and “focused”, seemingly leaving no room for any confusion.
With the Portuguese coach set to bring a tactical revolution, scrapping the 4-4-2 and variants of 4-3-3 that have served United for decades in favour of his own proven 3-4-3, concise instructions are going to be crucial.
Centre-backs, wing-backs, midfielders and forwards will all find themselves tasked with different roles than they have previously been used to and clarity is the biggest tool Amorim has available.
Ten Hag was one of only a handful of United managers in history to win more than one trophy, but the club hasn’t challenged in the Premier League or Champions League since Sir Alex Ferguson retired more than 11 years ago. The demand for success, quickly, is enormous.
Amorim has stressed the need for some patience but is adamant he can break the cycle.
“Call me naive, but I believe I am the right guy at the right time,” the new boss explained.
“I truly believe I am the right guy. I am a little bit of a dreamer and I believe in myself and I believe in the club. I think we have the same idea, the same mindset and that can help. I truly believe in the players, also. I think we have room to improve and I want to try new things.”
Amorim will lead his first United game on Sunday when the Red Devils face Ipswich Town.
