Former Man United’s coach Jose Mourinho has provided a solution to Ruben Amorim’s problems at Manchester United.
Following Erik ten Hag’s exit from Manchester United, the club has placed its trust in Portuguese tactician Ruben Amorim to revive its fortunes. Having previously guided Sporting Lisbon to multiple domestic triumphs, Amorim arrives at Old Trafford with fresh ideas and a distinct vision. Interestingly, former United manager José Mourinho, who has been a mentor to Amorim, has shared insights on the pitfalls that plagued Ten Hag’s reign and how his successor can avoid making similar mistakes.
One of the key concerns raised by Mourinho was Ten Hag’s somewhat insular approach to leadership. Reports indicate that the Dutchman relied heavily on a close inner circle, which may have limited his ability to fully integrate into the club’s existing structure. This approach reportedly led to a sense of isolation among staff and players, creating an atmosphere of detachment. Mourinho advised Amorim to embrace the club’s established culture, connect with local coaches and staff, and build a more inclusive working environment. In his typical blunt manner, he remarked that making this adjustment would be crucial to his success.
Man-management was another area where Ten Hag faced difficulties, particularly in his dealings with senior players. A notable example was his reported disagreement with Raphaël Varane, which resulted in the defender being sidelined for two months. Mourinho stressed the importance of fostering open lines of communication and mutual respect between the coaching staff and experienced players. He pointed out that veterans play a crucial role in maintaining squad harmony and motivation, making it essential for Amorim to handle these relationships with care.
Financial decisions during Ten Hag’s tenure also raised eyebrows, particularly the club’s significant investments in Casemiro and Antony, which amounted to roughly £140-150 million. The returns on these signings were deemed underwhelming, prompting Mourinho to advise Amorim to be more strategic in the transfer market. Rather than focusing solely on individual talent, he suggested prioritizing players who align with the club’s style of play and long-term vision.
While Amorim acknowledges the wisdom shared by his compatriot, he has made it clear that he intends to forge his own path. He has openly expressed admiration for Mourinho’s achievements but emphasized that his managerial approach is distinct. As he embarks on this new chapter at Manchester United, his immediate challenge will be steering the team through a tough period, with upcoming fixtures against Everton and Ipswich Town providing early tests of his tactical approach.
Amorim’s early days at the club have been far from smooth, with Manchester United struggling in 15th place in the Premier League. Financial difficulties have further complicated matters, with the club reporting a net loss of £27.7 million in the second quarter, a consequence of Ten Hag’s dismissal and the failure to qualify for the Champions League. The Portuguese coach has also faced challenges in implementing his preferred 3-4-3 formation, as the current squad lacks the necessary depth and technical quality to execute it effectively.
Injuries have only added to Amorim’s woes, with as many as 12 first-team players sidelined. This crisis has forced him to rely on inexperienced youth players, contributing to the team’s inconsistency. Despite these setbacks, he remains committed to instilling a strong team identity, emphasizing character and discipline over tactical rigidity.
With crucial fixtures on the horizon, Amorim has an opportunity to shift the narrative surrounding his tenure. While the road ahead is demanding, his determination to rebuild team morale and foster a unified squad could prove vital. The backing of the club’s hierarchy and supporters will be essential as he strives to lead Manchester United back to prominence.
