New Manchester United Head Coach Ruben Amorim Faces ‘No Illusions’ About Old Trafford Challenge.
Newly appointed Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim acknowledges the challenges he faces at Old Trafford, saying he is under “no illusions” about the task ahead.
The 39-year-old, signed on a two-and-a-half-year deal, officially begins his role this week. However, due to a work permit issue, Amorim will have to wait until he receives his visa before he can lead training sessions.
Amorim’s final game with Portuguese club Sporting ended in a 4-2 victory over his former team Braga on Sunday. “I feel ready for the new challenge,” he stated after the match. “I’m not naive—I know it’s going to be very different, very difficult. But I’m at peace now, able to focus on my new job, and I look forward to starting tomorrow. I know it will be hard to replicate what I’ve built here, but Old Trafford brings its own unique exposure and pressure.”
With the international break providing 13 days for preparation, Amorim will ready his squad for his debut Premier League match against Ipswich on November 24. Known for his preferred 3-4-3 formation at Sporting, Amorim has a clear vision for how he wants to set up his team. “I know how I am going to play in the beginning, sticking to a structure I am familiar with. Then, I’ll adapt based on the players’ strengths—whether that’s defending, attacking, or accommodating injuries. I’ll learn more about these factors in the coming weeks.”
Manchester United has yet to confirm the composition of Amorim’s backroom staff or whether Ruud van Nistelrooy, who served as interim coach following Erik ten Hag’s departure, will stay on. “I’ll speak with him tomorrow,” Amorim said. “I’ll be transparent about everything. So, let’s wait until then.”