Recent insights from the Manchester United dressing room reveal that manager Ruben Amorim has adopted a markedly different approach compared to his predecessors, Erik ten Hag and Ruud van Nistelrooy. The Portuguese coach is reportedly maintaining a “professional distance” from most of the squad as he prepares for significant changes this summer. This reserved stance contrasts sharply with the more personal relationships cultivated by his predecessors, reflecting Amorim’s methodical and pragmatic style as he navigates a challenging season at Old Trafford.
Ten Hag’s Tenure: Bonds Amidst Tensions
Erik ten Hag’s time at Manchester United was a rollercoaster of achievements and challenges. Known for his “gruff” demeanor in interviews and a no-nonsense approach to management, Ten Hag frequently clashed with high-profile players such as Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho. However, despite these publicized tensions, the Dutchman was respected for his ability to forge strong bonds with certain players, particularly those he brought to the club or developed from the academy.
Ten Hag’s influence was particularly evident in the development of Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo. Both academy graduates flourished under his guidance, playing pivotal roles in United’s FA Cup triumph over Manchester City last season. While his tenure ended on a sour note with his dismissal in October, Ten Hag left behind a legacy of loyalty and player development that resonated with many within the squad.
Van Nistelrooy’s Brief but Impactful Stint
Before Amorim’s arrival, Ruud van Nistelrooy served as interim manager for two weeks. Despite the brevity of his tenure, Van Nistelrooy left a positive impression on the squad through his excellent man-management skills. Players appreciated his approachable nature, with senior figures like Casemiro reportedly valuing their interactions with him. Van Nistelrooy’s personable style provided a stark contrast to Amorim’s more reserved approach, highlighting the varied leadership styles that have shaped United in recent months.
Amorim’s Reserved Approach: A Strategic Choice
Ruben Amorim stepped into the managerial role at Manchester United in November during a turbulent period for the club. Known for his success at Sporting CP, where he led the team to two Primeira Liga titles and multiple domestic cups, Amorim arrived with high expectations. However, his tenure so far has been marked by struggles on the pitch and a deliberate effort to maintain professional boundaries within the squad.
Amorim himself has acknowledged that his mid-season arrival has hindered his ability to build deeper connections with players. “Sometimes, that detail is really important,” he explained. “Pre-season, spending three weeks together, creating something new—it’s really hard to win without that feeling.” The Portuguese manager emphasized the importance of time and shared experiences in fostering team cohesion, something he hopes to achieve during United’s upcoming pre-season tour in America.
This professional distance appears to be part of a broader strategy as Amorim prepares for an extensive squad overhaul this summer. Reports suggest that he is intentionally avoiding close attachments with most players due to anticipated departures and arrivals during the transfer window. However, exceptions exist—Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot, both Portuguese internationals, are said to share a natural camaraderie with their compatriot manager.
Challenges on the Pitch
Amorim’s tenure at Old Trafford has not been without its challenges. His preferred 3-4-3 formation, which brought him success at Sporting CP, has struggled to yield results at Manchester United due to the squad’s limitations in adapting to its high-intensity demands. With only four wins in 14 Premier League matches under his leadership so far, critics like Gary Neville have urged Amorim to reconsider his tactical approach or risk losing the dressing room entirely.
Neville remarked: “I thought it would get better when Ruben Amorim came in… but we’ve seen the absolute opposite—it’s got a lot worse.” These struggles underscore the difficulty of implementing a new system mid-season without adequate preparation or personnel suited to its requirements.
Looking Ahead: A Summer of Transformation
The upcoming summer transfer window represents a critical juncture for Ruben Amorim and Manchester United. With plans for significant squad changes already underway, Amorim is expected to reshape the team according to his vision. The pre-season tour in America will provide an invaluable opportunity for him to strengthen relationships within the squad and instill his philosophy ahead of what promises to be another pivotal campaign.
While questions remain about whether Amorim can turn around United’s fortunes, his track record at Sporting CP suggests he possesses both the tactical acumen and resilience needed for success. As he works to rebuild trust and cohesion within the team, fans will be watching closely to see if this reserved yet ambitious manager can lead Manchester United back to glory.
Ruben Amorim’s journey at Old Trafford is still in its early stages, but it is already clear that his approach differs significantly from those who came before him. Whether this calculated professionalism will pay off remains uncertain but one thing is clear: change is on the horizon for Manchester United.
