Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has described his first year in charge at Old Trafford as a “rollercoaster journey,” admitting it has been a period of deep learning and resilience as the team begin to show real signs of progress.
The Portuguese coach, who took over last November, has come through waves of criticism over his tactics and formations but now has United on a three-game winning streak, their best run since his arrival.
United sit sixth in the Premier League table with 16 points from nine matches, six adrift of leaders Arsenal and one ahead of defending champions Liverpool.
Amorim believes the recent upturn is proof that staying true to his footballing philosophy was the right call.
“It was a big journey, tough, with good and bad moments,” he said ahead of Saturday’s clash with Nottingham Forest. “I learned that even in my lowest moments I can stick with what I believe, and that’s important. It’s one of the biggest honours of my life to be here, and I want to continue for many years.”
Forest, led by Sean Dyche, the club’s third manager this season, will pose a stern test. Dyche, a vocal critic of Amorim’s approach earlier in the campaign, had suggested United would have fared better using a 4-4-2 setup.
Amorim took the remark in stride, responding: “If you’re a pundit and you don’t say strong things, I don’t want to watch you. I can understand that, it’s a different job. Sean is smart and knows how to play the game.”
The United boss also gave an update on his defensive options, revealing that Harry Maguire faces a late fitness test while Lisandro Martínez, though back in full training after his ACL injury in February, is not yet ready for selection.
Amorim’s steadiness amid turbulence appears to be paying off, with momentum and belief finally returning to Old Trafford ahead of a crucial run of fixtures.
