Ruben Amorim insists he won’t change his style at Manchester United despite a heavy derby defeat to Manchester City. He acknowledges internal issues and poor results but remains committed to his philosophy, stating that the club must change the manager if they disagree with his approach.
Under-fire Manchester United head coach, Ruben Amorim, has defiantly asserted that his tactical approach will remain unchanged, despite the team's recent 3-0 derby defeat at the hands of Manchester City. Speaking after the match, Amorim indicated that if the club wishes to move away from his preferred 3-4-3 formation, a change in management would be necessary. He also alluded to undisclosed internal issues that have adversely affected the team's performance.
Manchester City's dominant victory was secured through Phil Foden's early header in the 18th minute, followed by Erling Haaland's brace in the 53rd and 68th minutes. The defeat leaves Amorim's Manchester United with a meager four points from their opening four games, and a disappointing overall record of 31 points from 31 games under his leadership. The pressure is mounting on the young coach, with fans and pundits questioning his ability to turn the tide at the iconic club.
When questioned about potential adjustments to the team's setup to improve results, Amorim dismissed the notion. He alluded to behind-the-scenes events as a contributing factor to the team's current struggles. "It is not a record you should have at Manchester United," he acknowledged. "You have no idea what happened [privately] during these [past] months but I accept that. I am not going to change. When I want to change my philosophy, I will change. If not, you have to change the man."
Amorim reiterated his unwavering belief in his methods. "We talk about this every game that we lose. I believe in my way and I am going to play my way until I want to change," he stated firmly.
Despite the poor results, Amorim maintains that he sees signs of improvement in the team's performances. "I see that we are doing better but the results don't show that," he lamented.
Drawing on past experiences, Amorim recalled a previous encounter against Manchester City during his time with Sporting Lisbon in the Champions League, where his team secured a 4-1 victory. He emphasized the contrasting levels of control his team exerted in that match compared to the recent derby defeat. "I remember last year I played with my former club [Sporting Lisbon] against City [in the Champions League] – we won 4-1. It was not near the same amount of opportunities – the way we controlled that game compared to today. In certain moments we were not better than City – I understand that. It is hard and the record says everything. I understand.”
Addressing fans who are losing faith in his leadership, Amorim pledged his unwavering commitment to the club. “That I am going to give everything,” the 40-year-old affirmed. “I will do everything – always thinking about what is best for the club. That was always the same message. It is not my decision, the rest. I really want to win games. I am suffering more than them.”
Meanwhile, Manchester City manager, Pep Guardiola, lauded Erling Haaland's performance, who now boasts five goals in four games. "Erling never disappoints us,” Guardiola remarked. “He is a special player.” Haaland's form will be crucial for Man City as they aim to challenge for trophies on multiple fronts this season.
The pressure continues to mount on Ruben Amorim, who faces a tough challenge in restoring Manchester United to their former glory. With his job on the line, only time will tell if he can turn things around and prove his doubters wrong. The next few games will be crucial in determining his future at the club.