“Ruben Amorim’s red and white army” echoes Old Trafford as Manchester United secures their biggest league win.
Amorim, a former player turned coach, has had a successful coaching career so far, notably leading Sporting Lisbon to their first Primeira Liga title in nearly two decades. His tactical acumen and ability to inspire players have been key to his success. Manchester United fans finally had a reason to cheer on Sunday as new boss Ruben Amorim guided his side to an emphatic 4-0 victory over Everton. The Stretford End roared with approval as Amorim acknowledged the crowd, a stark contrast to the jeers that had echoed earlier this season.
The win marks United’s third unbeaten game under Amorim, who was appointed after Erik ten Hag’s tumultuous tenure ended in October. United’s transformation under Amorim has been swift, lifting them from a dismal 14th place to 9th in the Premier League standings.
A Tactical Shift Sparks Revival
Amorim’s preferred 3-5-2 system, honed at Sporting Lisbon, is beginning to take shape at United. This system, known for its defensive solidity and attacking flexibility, has brought a new dimension to the team’s play. The team’s counter-pressing intensity, once absent, was on full display. Marcus Rashford and Joshua Zirkzee capitalised on Everton’s defensive lapses, each netting twice, while Amad Diallo dazzled with his creativity.
“The energy and the atmosphere speak for themselves,” Rashford told BBC Match of the Day. “There’s encouragement to bring your strengths into the game, and that’s when you see an excellent team performance.”
United now sit just four points shy of the Champions League spots, fueling hopes of a top-four finish. However, Rashford remains cautious:
“It’s nothing to get overly excited by. We must keep pushing daily to meet the manager’s demands.”
From Jeers to Cheers
The transformation at Old Trafford has been as much about morale as tactics. Under Ten Hag, United needed more identity, finishing 8th last season despite winning the Carabao Cup and FA Cup. The mood in the stands had soured, with fans voicing their frustrations after heavy defeats to Liverpool and Tottenham.
Amorim acknowledged the crucial role of the fans in the team’s success:
“It helps to have a new face, but we must be clear with our supporters. They demand hard work and will ask for better football over time. The fans sing these moments will stay with me forever.”
Fans Rally Despite Protests
Before the match, some supporters protested a steep hike in ticket prices. Banners reading “Stop Exploiting Loyalty” highlighted discontent over increases to £66 from the previous £40 for adults. The club’s response to these protests and any potential actions taken to address the fans’ concerns could be included to provide a more comprehensive view of the situation.
But inside the stadium, fans witnessed a performance worth every penny. Rashford’s goal 20 seconds into the second half sealed the win, and the jubilant crowd responded with “oles” and chants for Amorim to the tune of KC and The Sunshine Band’s Give It Up.
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A Grueling December Ahead
United’s December schedule is daunting, with nine fixtures, including away trips to Arsenal, Manchester City, and Tottenham. Amorim’s adaptability will be tested as the team faces limited training time and high expectations.
For now, though, the feel-good factor is back at the Theatre of Dreams, as Manchester United fans dare to believe in brighter days under Ruben Amorim’s leadership.