Ruben Amorim On the Managerial Hot Seat | OneFootball

Rúben Filipe Marques Amorim was born on January 27, 1985, in Lisbon, Portugal. As a child he played for Benfica’s youth team, before being released. He then trialed with Belenenses and made the first team, playing with them for five seasons, including the 2007 Portuguese cup final. His versatility as a midfielder brought attention from Benfica, who then re-signed him in 2008. In his six seasons with As Águias, Amorim contributed to three Primeira Liga titles, a Taça de Portugal, five Taças da Liga, and a Supertaça Cândido de Oliveira. His consistent performances earned him 14 caps for the Portuguese national team, representing his country in two FIFA World Cups.

Transition to Management: A Rising Star

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After hanging up his boots in 2017, Amorim swiftly transitioned into management. His tenure at Sporting CP was nothing short of miraculous. Implementing a dynamic 3-4-3 formation, he led the team to their first league title in 19 years during the 2020-21 season and clinched another in the 2023-24 season. His emphasis on youth development (particularly a Swedish striker named Viktor Gyökeres) and attacking tactics rejuvenated Sporting, making them a formidable force in Portuguese soccer.

The Manchester United Era

When Manchester United announced Ruben Amorim as their new manager in November 2024, it felt like a breath of fresh air. His track record with Sporting CP promised a revival of the attacking ethos that United fans cherish. The anticipation was palpable; a young, visionary manager at the helm of a club yearning for glory.

The Harsh Reality

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – JANUARY 16: Ruben Amorim, Manager of Manchester United, reacts during the Premier League match between Manchester United FC and Southampton FC at Old Trafford on January 16, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

However, the honeymoon period was brutally short-lived. After Amorim’s arrival Manchester United’s performance plummeted to unprecedented lows: a dismal record of just three wins in 11 Premier League matches, coupled with six home defeats. It’s been the worst start since the 1893-94 season, and left fans in despair. The team’s position at 13th on the table (below Crystal Palace!), with relegation fears looming, was a stark contrast to the high expectations set upon his arrival.

A Glimmer of Hope

Despite the setbacks, it’s essential to remember that rebuilding a team takes time. Amorim’s commitment to his tactical philosophy and his history of nurturing young talent could lay the foundation for future success. Patience and support might yet see a resurgence under his leadership.

The squad’s performance in the Europa League should breed some optimism. The three straight draws were eyebrow-raising, but they’ve been followed up by four wins in a row. They sit in 4th place and have a good chance to finish in the top 8.

Unforgivable Failures

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Yet, excuses wear thin when a club of Manchester United’s stature endures such humiliation. Amorim’s stubborn adherence to his tactics, despite glaring deficiencies, and his failure to adapt to the Premier League’s demands are inexcusable. The label of managing “maybe the worst Manchester United team in history” isn’t just media hyperbole; it’s a damning reality.

Conclusion

Rúben Amorim’s journey from a celebrated player to a manager with soaring highs and crushing lows is a testament to the unpredictable nature of football. Whether he will be remembered as the visionary who restored Manchester United’s glory or the architect of its darkest days remains to be seen.