Rúben Amorim’s appointment as Manchester United manager signals the beginning of a crucial new chapter for a club eager to rediscover its identity. The 39-year-old Portuguese coach, nicknamed “The Poet” by Cristiano Ronaldo, has been tasked with revitalizing a team that has struggled to find form this season. Currently sitting in 14th place in the Premier League following Erik ten Hag’s departure, United is turning to Amorim to restore unity and re-establish the club’s once-feared character.
Amorim has emphasized that his immediate focus will not be on tactics or formations, but on rebuilding the club’s culture and sense of purpose. In an interview with United’s official media, he outlined his vision with refreshing honesty and passion. “I want to say beautiful things to you, but I’m really honest. What I can say is that you will see an idea. You might like it or not, but you will see an idea. You will see positioning. You will see something—something that shows what we want to achieve,” he explained.
For Amorim, the foundation of success lies in the players’ character and mindset, which must come before any tactical considerations. Despite having only two training sessions with the squad before their match against Ipswich Town next Sunday, Amorim is focused on instilling the core values that have historically defined Manchester United. “When I think of Manchester United, it’s not about formations. It’s about the character of the players, the way they perceive the club. That’s what we need to focus on before anything else—before the pressing, before the tactics,” he stated.
Amorim’s emphasis on identity and principles reflects his understanding of United’s current challenges. The club has experienced turbulent years marked by managerial changes and inconsistent performances, leading to a disconnect between the team and its supporters. Amorim aims to address these issues by focusing on unity and shared purpose, seeking to restore the traditions that once made United a dominant force. “The priority now is creating principles, identity, and the character that defined this club in the past,” he said.
A charismatic leader, Amorim has already demonstrated his ability to build strong emotional connections with his players. His successful tenure at Sporting Lisbon not only brought silverware but also forged a close-knit team capable of exceeding expectations. Former United captain Bruno Fernandes, who worked with Amorim at Sporting, has praised his leadership style and the sense of camaraderie he fosters. Amorim’s authenticity and ability to inspire his players could be crucial in healing the divisions within the United dressing room, which has often been fragmented under previous managers.
Amorim admitted that the allure of Manchester United was too great to resist, drawn by the club’s rich history and passionate fanbase. “I feel this is the place I want to be because the people here are hungry for success. You can sense the potential to be part of something special,” he said. With a proven track record at Sporting, where he ended a 20-year title drought and secured league titles in 2021 and 2024, Amorim now has the opportunity to build on his success at one of football’s most storied clubs.
Amorim’s first test as United manager will come against Ipswich Town next Sunday, offering a chance to showcase the first signs of his vision. A Europa League clash with Bodo/Glimt on November 28 and a key Premier League match against Everton on December 1 will provide further challenges for the new manager as he looks to implement changes quickly.
For Manchester United fans, Amorim represents hope for the future. His focus on unity, character, and identity aligns with the club’s traditions and provides a potential blueprint for sustained success. While the road ahead may be difficult, Amorim’s arrival brings renewed optimism that United can return to its former glory. With his charismatic leadership and clear vision, Amorim is poised to lead the Red Devils toward a brighter future. The journey begins now, with all eyes on Old Trafford as the Amorim era unfolds.
