Man Utd’s Woes Deepen: Can Amorim Turn the Tide?

Manchester United's struggles continued in their recent 3-0 defeat to Manchester City, leaving fans and stakeholders alike deeply concerned. The cameras captured Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the key decision-maker at Old Trafford, looking pensive in the directors' box, prompting questions about his thoughts on the team's performance and future direction.

The defeat raised numerous concerns, including the team's inability to compete against top-six rivals, the striker's lack of impact in the opposition box, and the overall performance despite significant investments in new players. According to Opta's statistics, the club now has a higher chance of being relegated (11%) than finishing in the top five (7.3%), highlighting the severity of the situation.

Manager Amorim acknowledged the team's struggles and the pressure he faces, stating, "I understand how football is and results dictate all the narratives. We are doing better but the results don't show that. I understand the record and I understand the decision that comes with that." He reassured fans of his commitment to the club, saying, "My message is I am going to give everything and do everything that is best for the club. Then it is not my decision, the last. Until I am here, I will do my best and I am suffering more than them."

However, Amorim's words may not be enough to appease the growing discontent among fans, many of whom left the stadium early in disappointment. The team's poor start to the season, with only four points from four games, marks their worst since 1992-93 under Sir Alex Ferguson. While that season ultimately led to a title win, the current situation is markedly different, with the team lacking quality and struggling to implement Amorim's preferred 3-4-3 formation.

Former Manchester United skipper Roy Keane criticized the team's lack of quality and Amorim's stubborn adherence to his system, saying, "This United team lack real quality. Look at the results, points per game, goals for and against. It is not good reading. You talk about the system but the manager is sticking to his guns. He is not budging."

The 3-4-3 formation has been a point of contention, with critics arguing that it exposes the midfield due to a lack of numbers and cohesion. This was evident in Manchester City's opening goal, where Jeremy Doku bypassed Bruno Fernandes and weaved through the defense before assisting Phil Foden's header.

Image source, Opta

New signing Sesko, making his first Premier League start, struggled to make an impact, further fueling concerns about the team's attacking prowess. Former United striker Dion Dublin noted that Sesko "looked like they were on a park playing against Sesko today."

Meanwhile, Napoli's X post celebrating Hojlund's goal in their recent match garnered significant attention, highlighting the interest in his performance outside of Manchester United. Hojlund is set to return to Manchester and will be hoping for a more successful outing at the Etihad in the Champions League.

Despite the criticism and concerns, Amorim remains committed to his formation, stating, "I believe in my way and I will until I want to change." However, with pressure mounting and the team's performance failing to improve, questions linger about his future at the club.

Former England international Theo Walcott suggested a change in tactics, advocating for a 4-3-3 formation with two solid center-backs and Bruno Fernandes playing higher up the field. "My problem with this system is you're asking players to play in positions they're not used to," Walcott said.

As Amorim navigates the challenges ahead, he faces immense pressure to find solutions and turn the team's fortunes around. With the season rapidly progressing, the time for answers is quickly running out.