- Pressure continues to mount on <a href="http://www.americanosports.com/psg-and-manchester-united-compete-for-benfica-striker-goncalo-ramos/" title="PSG and Manchester United Compete for Benfica Striker Gonçalo Ramos”>Erik ten Hag following Manchester United’s disappointing season start
- The Red Devils ‘still have faith’ in the Dutchman but are preparing for a potential change
- LISTEN NOW: It’s All Kicking Off!, available on all podcast platforms. New episodes every Monday and Thursday
Manchester United is reportedly poised to compete with Manchester City for a highly sought-after manager.
Pep Guardiola’s contract at City is set to end at the conclusion of the season, and he has yet to confirm his long-term intentions with the club.
Should the Spaniard depart the Etihad next summer, it’s been suggested that Ruben Amorim would be a leading candidate for the role after his remarkable performance in Portugal.
However, United, as stated by Sky Germany, are also keen on Amorim and will pose competition for the City rivals.
The Red Devils ‘have already made targeted inquiries’ regarding the Portuguese manager and are preparing for the possibility of sacking Erik ten Hag.
Erik ten Hag remains under pressure after Manchester United’s poor start to the season
<p class="
Despite the club’s disappointing start to the season, Ineos continues to stand by the Dutchman.
Following their worst start to a season in seven matches, where they secured only two victories and netted five goals, the pressure on Ten Hag has intensified.
Last week, Mail Sport disclosed that Hugo Viana, the current director of football at Sporting, has reached an agreement to succeed Txiki Begiristain at City next year, with Amorim being speculated as a potential addition to the team in England.
However, Amorim has stated that he has not made any decision to join Viana in the Premier League. “Hugo Viana and I are on different paths,” he explained in an interview with Cabine Desportiva.
“His appointment doesn’t imply that I am heading to Man City. We maintain a very positive professional relationship.”
Sporting is scheduled to face City in the Champions League next month. Amorim mentioned that Viana will step back from the team that week, but he does not foresee any change in their relationship during the remainder of their tenure in Portugal.
Pep Guardiola’s contract at City is due to expire at the end of the season, and he is yet to commit his long-term future to the club.
“Nothing has changed regarding Sporting. Nothing at all. Everything will remain unchanged until the season concludes,” he asserted.
“Naturally, during City’s week, Viana won’t be around the dressing room. I will exclude him to prevent any conflicts. Otherwise, everything will stay the same until the end of the season.”
Amorim took the reins at Sporting in 2020 and led the club to its first league title since 2002 the following season.
Last season, he accomplished the same achievement, and Sporting has initiated the current campaign flawlessly, securing victories in all eight league matches, thereby establishing a three-point advantage at the top of the standings.
Pressure Mounts on Erik ten Hag as Manchester United Eyes Ruben Amorim Amid Poor Start
Current State of Manchester United
Manchester United’s season has not kicked off as fans and management had hoped. Following a string of disappointing performances, the pressure on manager Erik ten Hag is intensifying. With the club’s ambitions to reclaim its status among the elite of European football, the current trajectory raises serious concerns. The team’s lack of cohesion, tactical inconsistency, and unfortunate injury woes have contributed to a shaky start.
Erik ten Hag’s Management Under Scrutiny
Since taking the helm at Manchester United, Erik ten Hag has faced mixed reactions. While he displayed potential to revitalize the club, recent results have reignited doubts about his strategies and man-management skills. Key points of concern include:
- Inconsistent Team Selection: Ten Hag’s rotation policy has yet to yield positive results, leading to confusion among players.
- Tactical Rigidness: Critics argue that his tactics have become predictable, making it easier for opponents to exploit weaknesses.
- Player Morale: Rumors of discord in the dressing room suggest that player morale is suffering, impacting on-field performance.
Manchester United’s Ambitions and Targets
The pressure on Ten Hag coincides with Manchester United’s ambitions to build a competitive squad. The management has reportedly turned its attention toward potential replacements. One name that has surfaced prominently is Ruben Amorim, the current head coach of Sporting CP.
Why Ruben Amorim?
Ruben Amorim has gained recognition for his remarkable achievements in the Portuguese league. His coaching credentials include:
- Success at Sporting CP: Amorim led Sporting to their first Primeira Liga title in nearly two decades, demonstrating his tactical expertise and ability to inspire players.
- Development of Young Talent: Known for nurturing youth, Amorim has successfully integrated younger players into the first team, a crucial aspect for United’s future.
- Dynamic Playing Style: His teams are characterized by high pressing, fluid attacking play, and defensive solidity—qualities that align with United’s traditional style.
Comparative Performance: Ten Hag vs. Amorim
To better understand the situation, here’s a comparison of Erik ten Hag and Ruben Amorim based on recent performances and achievements:
| Criteria | Erik ten Hag | Ruben Amorim |
|---|---|---|
| Current Club | Manchester United | Sporting CP |
| League Titles | 1 (Eredivisie) | 1 (Primeira Liga) |
| Preferred Formation | 4-2-3-1 | 3-4-3 / 3-5-2 |
| Development of Young Players | Mixed | Excellent |
| Player Management | Struggling | Highly Rated |
The Potential Impact of a Coaching Change
A coaching change at this juncture could have significant implications for Manchester United. Considerations include:
- Immediate Change in Morale: A fresh managerial approach can rejuvenate player spirits and improve overall performance.
- Long-term Strategy Alignment: Adopting Amorim’s philosophy could lead to a more cohesive playing style, potentially attracting younger talents.
- Fan Engagement: A new, dynamic coach might reignite excitement among supporters, crucial for the club’s image and ticket sales.
Case Studies: Successful Managerial Changes
Looking at historical precedents, several clubs have experienced a surge in performance following a managerial change, providing a roadmap for United’s potential decision:
- Manchester City and Pep Guardiola: City’s investment in Guardiola transformed the club into a dominant force in English football.
- Chelsea and Thomas Tuchel: Tuchel’s arrival led Chelsea to a Champions League title within months, showcasing the impact of a tactical overhaul.
- Liverpool and Jurgen Klopp: Klopp’s appointment revitalized Liverpool, culminating in a Premier League title after a 30-year wait.
First-Hand Experience: Fans’ Perspectives
Understanding the sentiments of Manchester United supporters provides insights into the urgency for change:
- Frustration with Current Form: Many fans express disappointment over the lack of attacking football and defensive vulnerabilities.
- Support for Young Talent: A significant portion of the fanbase advocates for integrating youth players, aligning with Amorim’s coaching style.
- Calls for New Leadership: Numerous supporters are vocal about the need for a fresh approach, hoping that a new manager can restore the club’s former glory.
Conclusion
As pressure mounts on Erik ten Hag, Manchester United’s management is carefully considering its options. With Ruben Amorim emerging as a strong candidate, the club stands at a crossroads. The choices made in the coming weeks will be pivotal in determining Manchester United’s trajectory for the rest of the season.
