Indeed, this was the reason why Erik ten Hag was fired. He was unable to solve the issues. Just like Ten Hag, he runs the risk of being fired if he continues to overlook these issues. Rúben Amorim, the manager of Manchester United, has finally revealed the key to the club’s difficulties. He has named five of the most significant issues that he needs to address in his role as manager. “They are one of the biggest problems in this club, and it has resulted in the dismissal of a lot of coaches,” said Sir Alex Ferguson

Manchester United has reached an agreement with Sporting Lisbon to appoint Rúben Amorim as their new manager, just days after dismissing Erik ten Hag following a 2-1 loss to West Ham. United informed Sporting of their plan to activate Amorim’s release clause, estimated at €10 million (£8.3 million), after he expressed his commitment to join the club.

The 39-year-old manager is scheduled to lead his first game for United on November 24 against Ipswich Town. However, he’ll remain with Sporting for matches against Estrela Amadora, Manchester City, and Braga before officially moving to Manchester.

Amorim faces several tough tasks as he transitions into this role. Former United assistant manager Mike Phelan emphasized the importance of establishing a clear playing style to ensure Amorim’s success at United.

“He’s inheriting a distinct roster, and he knows recent performances have been below expectations,” Phelan told talkSPORT. “Building a solid identity on the field will be essential for Manchester United and their new manager. What direction will they take under Amorim?”

Phelan continued, “Fans and the board expect immediate progress, so he’ll need to make an impact quickly.”

Amorim’s arrival is anticipated with optimism, though he has considerable hurdles ahead. Here are some of the key challenges he’ll tackle.

Streamlining the Squad

Amorim has reportedly discussed his transfer strategies with United’s board, with Team Talk suggesting that players like Christian Eriksen, Victor Lindelof, Casemiro, and Antony might not feature in his long-term vision. The board also appears to acknowledge that some current player performances don’t align with their high salaries.

Reinvigorating Marcus Rashford

Rashford, with four goals in 15 games this season, is said to be “excited” about working with Amorim, hoping the new manager can help him regain top form. Amorim’s engaging coaching approach could be key in helping Rashford find consistency and confidence.

Adjusting the Defense to a Fresh Formation

Amorim is known for employing a 3-4-3 formation that emphasizes high pressing and possession control, with attacking transitions in a 3-2-5 shape and defensive organization in a 5-2-3 structure. This system will require adjustments from United’s defenders, including Lisandro Martinez, Matthijs de Ligt, Leny Yoro, Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelof, and Jonny Evans.

Resolving Left-Back Shortages

Amorim favors dynamic wing-backs, yet United’s left-back options are limited. Luke Shaw is sidelined with a long-term injury, and Tyrell Malacia has not played since May 2023 due to knee surgery. United is reportedly eyeing Benfica’s Alvaro Carreras, who has a £16 million buy-back clause, as a possible solution.

Increasing Goal Scoring

United’s struggle to find the back of the net has been evident, with just eight goals in their first nine league games. Amorim has a proven track record in this area; his Sporting side scored 96 goals in their title-winning season last year, with Viktor Gyokeres contributing 29 goals. In the short term, Amorim will aim to boost the confidence of Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee, each with only one league goal.

With Amorim’s leadership, United’s management and fans are hopeful he can steer the club toward success. The next few months will be a critical period for him to address these challe

nges and make a lasting impact.