How Manchester United’s Missed Chance with Ruben Amorim Could Haunt Them in the 2025/26 Season
The Unraveling: Manchester United’s Missed Opportunity with Ruben Amorim and its 2025/26 Fallout
The 2025/26 season at Manchester United will be remembered for its inconsistency, tactical uncertainty, and ultimately, a finish outside the Champions League places. While on-field performances are the most visible indicator of a club’s health, the underlying issues often stem from boardroom decisions and managerial stability. One such factor that cast a long shadow over the season was the failed pursuit and subsequent rejection of Ruben Amorim, a promising young manager then heavily linked with the club. The internal strife that ultimately derailed the move had a profound impact, leaving United in a state of flux and hindering their progress on and off the pitch.
The Amorim Attraction: Why United Targeted the Sporting CP Maestro
Ruben Amorim’s rise to prominence at Sporting CP was nothing short of meteoric. He inherited a club starved of success and quickly transformed them into champions of Portugal, playing an attractive and effective brand of football. His tactical flexibility, ability to develop young players, and strong leadership qualities made him a highly sought-after manager across Europe. Manchester United, still reeling from years of underperformance since Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure, saw Amorim as the potential answer to their managerial woes. His preferred 3-4-3 formation, emphasizing quick transitions and a high pressing game, was seen as a refreshing alternative to the more pragmatic approach employed by the then-current manager. Amorim’s Transfermarkt Profile details his managerial record and tactical preferences.
The initial attraction was clear: Amorim presented a vision, a clear tactical identity, and a proven track record of success, albeit in a different league. United’s scouting reports highlighted his exceptional ability to motivate players, instill discipline, and create a winning mentality – qualities that had been sorely lacking at Old Trafford in recent years.
The Internal Divide: Ten Hag’s Resistance and INEOS’s Vision
However, the path to securing Amorim’s services was far from smooth. The existing manager, Erik ten Hag, was reportedly resistant to the idea of being replaced, despite the team’s inconsistent form. Ten Hag, brought in with much fanfare, had failed to deliver the consistent results expected, leading to growing discontent among fans and within the club hierarchy.
The arrival of INEOS and Sir Jim Ratcliffe brought a new dynamic to the situation. INEOS, known for their data-driven approach and emphasis on long-term planning, were keen to implement a new managerial structure and bring in a coach who aligned with their vision for the club. While Ten Hag had the support of some figures within the club, INEOS saw Amorim as a better fit for their strategic goals.
This difference in opinion created a power struggle behind the scenes. Sources close to the club revealed a growing tension between the old guard, who favored continuity and giving Ten Hag more time, and the new regime, who were eager to make a bold statement and implement significant changes. Sky Sports Football often reported on the growing pressure on Ten Hag during this period.
The Breakdown: How Tensions Scuppered the Deal
Ultimately, the internal divisions proved too great to overcome. Reports emerged of disagreements over the level of control Amorim would have, his transfer budget, and the composition of his coaching staff. Ten Hag’s camp reportedly leaked information to the press, painting Amorim as a disruptive influence and questioning his suitability for the Premier League.
Furthermore, concerns were raised about Amorim’s lack of experience managing in a top-five European league, despite his success in Portugal. While INEOS were willing to take a calculated risk, other members of the board remained hesitant, fearing the potential backlash if the appointment backfired.
The culmination of these factors led to the collapse of the negotiations. Amorim, sensing the instability and lack of a unified vision at the club, reportedly withdrew his interest, opting to remain at Sporting CP. This decision left Manchester United in a precarious position, without a clear managerial direction and facing a crucial pre-season.
The 2025/26 Season: A Season of Missed Opportunities
The failure to secure Amorim’s services had a direct impact on Manchester United’s performance in the 2025/26 season. Ten Hag remained in charge, but the lingering uncertainty surrounding his future created a toxic atmosphere within the squad. The team’s performances were inconsistent, with flashes of brilliance interspersed with disappointing defeats.
Tactically, United lacked a clear identity. Ten Hag struggled to find a consistent formation and often tinkered with his lineup, leading to a lack of cohesion and understanding among the players. The team’s attacking play was often predictable and lacked creativity, while their defensive frailties were repeatedly exposed.
The absence of a strong leadership figure in the dugout also contributed to the team’s struggles. Ten Hag’s authority was undermined by the constant speculation surrounding his future, making it difficult for him to command the respect of the players and implement his ideas effectively.
Ultimately, Manchester United finished outside the Champions League places, a significant setback for a club with such high ambitions. The season was a stark reminder of the importance of stability, unity, and a clear vision at the top of a football club. Premier League Table for the 2025/26 season would reflect this.
The Tactical Void: Analyzing United’s Shortcomings
Without Amorim’s tactical prowess, United’s midfield struggled to control games. The expected high press never materialized consistently, leaving the defense exposed. The wingers, lacking clear instructions and support, failed to provide the width and creativity needed to unlock opposition defenses.
Comparing United’s season to Sporting CP under Amorim further highlights the tactical void. Sporting CP continued to thrive with Amorim at the helm, showcasing a cohesive attacking unit and a disciplined defensive structure. United, in contrast, appeared disjointed and lacked a clear game plan.
Long-Term Repercussions: A Lesson Learned?
The failed pursuit of Ruben Amorim and the subsequent struggles of the 2025/26 season serve as a cautionary tale for Manchester United. It highlights the importance of aligning managerial appointments with the club’s long-term vision and ensuring a unified front within the boardroom.
The club’s hierarchy must learn from this experience and prioritize stability and clarity in their future decision-making. A clear managerial structure, a well-defined tactical philosophy, and a commitment to developing young players are essential for Manchester United to regain their status as a top European club. The summer of 2026 promises to be another pivotal moment for the club, with crucial decisions to be made regarding the managerial position and the overall direction of the team. Whether they can learn from the mistakes of the past remains to be seen.
FAQ
Why was Ruben Amorim a target for Manchester United?
Ruben Amorim was targeted due to his successful tenure at Sporting CP, where he implemented an attractive and effective playing style, won the Portuguese league title, and demonstrated strong leadership and tactical flexibility. His ability to develop young players and instill a winning mentality were also highly valued.
What were the main reasons the deal with Amorim fell through?
The deal fell through primarily due to internal divisions within Manchester United. The existing manager, Erik ten Hag, resisted being replaced, and disagreements arose between the old guard and the new INEOS regime regarding Amorim’s level of control, transfer budget, and coaching staff. Concerns about his lack of experience in a top-five European league also played a role.
How did the failed Amorim pursuit impact Manchester United’s 2025/26 season?
The failed pursuit created instability and uncertainty within the club, undermining Ten Hag’s authority and leading to inconsistent performances. The team lacked a clear tactical identity, and the absence of strong leadership in the dugout contributed to their struggles, ultimately resulting in a finish outside the Champions League places.
What tactical changes could Amorim have brought to United?
Amorim likely would have implemented his preferred 3-4-3 formation, emphasizing quick transitions, a high pressing game, and a more cohesive attacking structure. This could have addressed United’s midfield control issues, defensive frailties, and lack of creativity in attack.
What lessons can Manchester United learn from this experience?
Manchester United needs to prioritize stability, unity, and a clear vision in their decision-making. Aligning managerial appointments with the club’s long-term goals, ensuring a unified front within the boardroom, and committing to a well-defined tactical philosophy are crucial for future success.
