A Mysterious Figure with a Bold Approach
Much like Nathan Fielder’s on-screen persona, Amorim remains an enigmatic presence. Small in stature and unassuming, yet strangely comfortable when making audacious and damaging statements. Just 77 days into his high-profile role, which he seemed pressured into taking, Amorim’s strategy appears straightforward—rebuild Manchester United’s reputation and self-esteem by highlighting deficiencies in the squad and expressing his dissatisfaction with the job.
Setting Expectations Low from the Start
Barely a week into his tenure at Old Trafford, Amorim admitted that it would take longer than his 2.5-year contract to secure a title. Even after a three-game unbeaten start, he warned that the team “will be exposed in certain games.” Well, wasn’t he right?
Questionable Tactical Decisions
- Tactical Gamble Backfires – Amorim made a bold decision by placing Casemiro and Christian Eriksen at the heart of a 3-4-3 formation, but the strategy failed, leading to a defeat against Newcastle.
- Harsh Reality Check – In response, he issued a stern warning to his players, emphasizing that the team was on the verge of a major downfall, stating, “This club needs a jolt to realize the gravity of our situation.”
- Escalating Criticism – After another loss to Brighton, Amorim intensified his critique, openly declaring, “We might be the most underwhelming squad to ever don the Manchester United jersey.”
Targeting Rashford: Tough Love or Unfair Criticism?
While many underperformers have disappointed, Marcus Rashford’s struggles stand out the most. Amorim’s approach to reviving the young star has been unusual. Instead of a gentle chat or a supportive arm around the shoulder, he opted for harsh public criticism—the kind that might unsettle players like Luke Shaw. Rashford was omitted from the squad for the 1-0 win at Fulham. Amorim justified the decision by saying: “I’d rather have seen our 63-year-old goalkeeping coach, Jorge Vital, on the bench than a player who refuses to put in maximum effort.” A not-so-subtle jab at Rashford.
The Ruthless Influence of Jim Ratcliffe
Manchester United’s cost-cutting magnate, Big Sir Jim Ratcliffe, is no stranger to voicing his opinions. Whether it’s Dan Ashworth, Sir Ben Ainslie, or just ordinary employees, if he doesn’t understand your role, you might quickly find yourself out the door. Even Ratcliffe might be taken aback by Amorim’s relentless criticism of players and staff alike.
A Strategy That Might Just Work?
Amorim’s latest post-match dressing-down came after what was, in truth, a decent performance at Craven Cottage—albeit in a match with the intensity of Antiques Roadshow. Perhaps, his tough treatment of Rashford is a strategic move—ensuring that the next player to be shown the door isn’t him. Or maybe, like Nathan Fielder’s most bizarre ideas, Amorim’s shock-and-awe approach might actually pay off in the end.
