Ruben Amorim is facing mounting pressure at Manchester United after a turbulent start to the new season, with questions emerging over his tactics and approach to player management. The Portuguese head coach has yet to record a win this campaign, compounding the frustration of last season’s dismal finish.
United’s latest setback came in the Carabao Cup, where they were eliminated by Grimsby Town in a penalty shootout. The defeat marked the first time the club has ever lost to a fourth-tier side in the competition, intensifying scrutiny around Amorim’s methods. That result followed a league defeat to Arsenal and a draw with Fulham, leaving the team winless heading into a crucial home fixture against Burnley.
While the club’s hierarchy is not believed to be preparing to sack Amorim, there is growing concern that his stubborn commitment to a 3-4-3 formation could trigger his own downfall. Insiders suggest he may choose to resign during the international break rather than compromise on his tactical principles. His formation, which brought him success at Sporting, has failed to translate to English football, with United collecting just 27 points from their last 29 league matches.
Amorim’s man-management is also under the microscope. Players reportedly view his approach as well-intentioned but at times counterproductive, contributing to a sense of disconnection within the squad. After the Grimsby defeat, the manager admitted that “something has to change,” yet there is little belief that he is prepared to abandon his system.
Jason Wilcox, the club’s director of football, is said to be monitoring the situation closely as pressure mounts. The next fixture against Burnley is seen as a vital opportunity to restore some confidence before the international break. Failure to secure three points could deepen the crisis ahead of a daunting Manchester derby against City on 14 September.
Adding to the turbulence, winger Alejandro Garnacho will no longer feature for the club after United agreed a £40 million transfer to Chelsea, including a 10% sell-on clause. Garnacho had been one of the players Amorim was willing to let go, and his departure further highlights the transition period at Old Trafford.
United’s immediate future now hinges on whether Amorim can adapt and reverse the poor run, or whether his unwillingness to change will bring his tenure to an abrupt end.
