Ruben Amorim Criticizes Man Utd’s Defense After Winless November in Premier League
Ruben Amorim, head coach of Manchester United, has publicly criticized his team’s defensive performance after a disappointing November. The squad has yet to secure a win in the Premier League this month, raising concerns about their inconsistency and vulnerability near the goal.
Defensive Struggles Highlighted
Amorim’s remarks come after a series of frustrating matches. On November 1, Manchester United faced Nottingham Forest, conceding two goals in just two minutes after halftime, resulting in a 2-2 draw. This was followed by another draw against Tottenham, where United again dropped points. The latest setback occurred against Everton on a Monday night, where United lost 1-0 despite playing against ten men for most of the match.
Issues in the Box
Amorim labeled the team’s defending as “soft” and emphasized the need for improvement, particularly in tight situations. He stated, “We are being really soft near the box, so we need to improve that.” Amorim pointed to specific moments where his team failed to defend effectively, especially during set plays and crosses.
- Against Nottingham Forest: Two goals conceded in two minutes.
- Vs. Tottenham: Another draw with similar defensive issues.
- Vs. Everton: Lost 1-0 despite the opposition being reduced to ten players.
Pressure to Perform
Amorim acknowledged the intense pressure that comes with managing at Manchester United. He explained that the urgency for results is unparalleled, highlighting the need for immediate improvement. “We need to win now. If not, something is going to change,” he said, emphasizing the urgency surrounding each match.
He also reflected on the team’s strong performance with three consecutive wins prior to November, making the current winless stretch even more challenging. Amorim remarked, “It’s not good to be at United and not winning. There is no time here.”
Looking Ahead
Despite the difficulties, Amorim remains hopeful about strengthening the team during the January transfer window. He acknowledged the importance of improving the squad while also facing questions regarding player Kobbie Mainoo’s role. Mainoo has struggled for consistent playing time, even after showcasing talent in the Euro 2024.
“I see him as a starter like the other guys,” Amorim asserted, indicating that the focus remains on team performance rather than individual recognition. His commitment is clear: winning is the priority.
As Manchester United prepares for their next match against Crystal Palace, the call for defensive resilience and effective strategies will be crucial. The team’s ability to adapt and improve will define their upcoming performances in the Premier League.
