When Rúben Amorim was appointed manager of Manchester United, they were selecting somebody who had achieved great success domestically in Portugal with Sporting, but had no international experience.
His time at Old Trafford did not go well. Fifteen victories in 47 Premier League matches represented a poor return, and his rigid insistence upon a particular system was at variance with the players he had who could play in that way.
He does not bear all the responsibility for that. United appointed him knowing his methods. If the squad was unsuitable, the hierarchy needed either to support a credible transition or select somebody whose approach better matched its resources. Recruiting a specialist and then becoming uncomfortable with his specialism raises questions about the appointment itself.
Nevertheless, there was some surprise when AC Milan decided to take a chance on the Portuguese and appoint him their head coach this summer.
Early indications are that the gamble is beginning to pay off with Milan’s 3–1 derby victory over Inter offering evidence that the 41-year old coach retains considerable ability. Amorim has also demonstrated greater tactical flexibility, alternating between three and four defenders. Milan remain imperfect, but there are signs of a team developing under his direction.
Meanwhile, United are continuing to struggle, and their winless run is the longest in 38 years. Only goal difference is keeping them out of the Premier League relegation zone.
Whilst Amorim cannot be entirely blameless for what happened on his watch at United, their subsequent struggles suggests that the malaise at Old Trafford lies much deeper.
United’s recurring failure is to treat the next appointment as the solution to problems that survive successive managers. Different personalities and coaching philosophies arrive, inherit enormous expectations, and eventually become the principal explanation for disappointment.
Recruitment, squad balance, accountability, and the distribution of authority deserve equally persistent examination. Spending heavily does not establish that money has been spent coherently.
Should Carrick not experience an upturn of fortunes in their next two matches, against Roma in the Champions League and Aston Villa in the Premier League, it is difficult to envisage he will still be in charge after the next international break.
It will be left to the new man to try and pick up the pieces – again.
Amorim’s progress does not prove United should have retained him. It strengthens the argument that dismissing him addressed only part of the problem.
A dysfunctional club can make a capable manager look inadequate. Until United confront the decisions and structures above the coaching staff, changing the man on the touchline will remain an expensive substitute for meaningful reform.
