As 2024 comes to an end, or stumbles to an end if you’re a Manchester United fan… it’s the perfect opportunity to look ahead to the first full year of Ruben Amorim’s reign.
More pain on the horizon? With trips to Liverpool and Arsenal to start 2025, regrettably, it’s likely. Brighter days beyond that? Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his INEOS posse will hope so.
Express Sport picks three New Year’s Resolutions that, should United achieve them, would mean Amorim has ridden the “storm” and laid down some solid foundations.
Finish in the European spots
It’s not exactly outrageous to suggest a top-four finish is already out of the Red Devils’ reach. Too many clubs are operating at a much higher level.
But, ignoring the fact that United should always play in Europe, the lack of Champions League football is financially damaging as it is.
At this stage, another go at the Europa League or even an inaugural Conference League campaign should be the aim in the Premier League.
A season without the extra fixtures European football offers may benefit Amorim in the long run, but Ratcliffe needs revenue from wherever he can get it.
Win the Europa League
Of course, there is another route into the Champions League… and it looks like United’s best right now.
After drawing their opening three Europa League games this term under Erik ten Hag, Ruud van Nistelrooy and Amorim have overseen three straight wins to enter the top eight.
In seventh, with Rangers and FCSB to play in the final two league phase games, United are well positioned to enter the knockout stage.
The M16 giants are still among the favourites to win the competition, and a second Europa League crown in Bilbao would be the perfect platform for Amorim’s first full season.
Fast-track Ruben Amorim’s rebuild
It seems like this is said ahead of every summer, but United could do with hosting a clear-out as early as possible to help the new boss realise his vision.
Amorim’s early results have made the monumental task he faces to instil such a drastic change in philosophy clear for all to see.
Recruiting his own players would help fast-track the process and give United a great chance of starting next season strongly.
If United don’t have the facilities to get brutal in January, Amorim needs the keys to build his squad to his liking in the summer.
