Ruben Amorim is facing a critical period as Manchester United head coach, with the next three matches effectively determining his future at Old Trafford. The Red Devils have had a disappointing start to the Premier League season, securing just four points from their first four games and languishing in 14th place.
Since taking the reins at United 10 months ago, Amorim has managed only eight victories in 31 league matches, leading to some senior players in the dressing room turning on him. Despite assurances from the club’s top brass that they fully support Amorim and have no plans for a managerial shake-up, it’s understood that the situation will be reviewed after the upcoming trio of fixtures.
United are set to face Chelsea at home this Saturday, followed by an away game against Brentford and a clash with newly-promoted Sunderland at Old Trafford, all before the international break.
Amorim is acutely aware of the mounting pressure following a lacklustre start to the season, especially given last year’s dismal performance, which saw United finish 15th – their worst league standing in over half a century.
The first match post-international break sees United pitted against reigning champions and fierce rivals Liverpool. If there’s no improvement in form or results before this daunting trip to Anfield, the club’s hierarchy may feel compelled to consider a change at the helm.
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Despite private assurances of faith in Amorim, it’s worth noting that similar promises were made to Erik ten Hag before he was abruptly dismissed just nine games into the previous season.
The upcoming league match against Sunderland will be United’s eighth of the season, and manager Amorim is fully aware that his position will remain under scrutiny unless he can steer the team towards a winning streak.
Potential successors to Amorim include Crystal Palace’s Oliver Glasner, former England manager Gareth Southgate, Fulham’s Marco Silva, and Bournemouth’s Andoni Iraola.
Mauricio Pochettino, the ex-Tottenham boss who is currently leading the USA national team and was previously linked with the United job when Ten Hag was appointed, is also considered a potential candidate for the Old Trafford hot seat should Amorim be dismissed.