Following Erik ten Hag’s exit from Manchester United, the club has placed its trust in Ruben Amorim to revive its fortunes. Amorim, who previously enjoyed success with Sporting Lisbon, brings a fresh perspective to Old Trafford. His appointment has sparked discussions about what went wrong under Ten Hag, with former United manager José Mourinho offering insights into the key mistakes that led to his downfall. As a mentor to Amorim, Mourinho has suggested specific areas of improvement that could help the new manager avoid the same fate.
One of the main concerns raised by Mourinho was Ten Hag’s insular approach to management. Reports indicate that he surrounded himself with a close-knit group, limiting his ability to fully integrate into Manchester United’s broader culture. This isolation, according to Mourinho, may have created distance between Ten Hag and key staff members, ultimately impacting team morale. He advised Amorim to take a different approach by engaging with local staff and embracing the club’s traditions, stating that such a change could be instrumental in his success.
Another critical issue highlighted was Ten Hag’s handling of senior players. Mourinho pointed out that strained relationships with key figures, such as Raphaël Varane, who was reportedly sidelined after a disagreement, may have contributed to instability within the squad. He emphasized the importance of open communication and mutual respect between the manager and experienced players. According to Mourinho, leveraging the leadership qualities of seasoned players can help create a more cohesive and motivated team.
Additionally, Ten Hag’s transfer decisions were a topic of scrutiny. His tenure saw significant investments in players like Casemiro and Antony, with a combined cost of around £140-150 million. However, the impact of these signings did not match expectations. Mourinho suggested that Amorim adopt a more strategic approach to player recruitment, focusing on individuals who not only possess talent but also align with the club’s playing style and long-term vision. This would ensure that financial resources are utilized effectively while contributing to sustained success.
Amorim, while acknowledging Mourinho’s advice, has been quick to establish his own identity as a manager. He expressed admiration for Mourinho’s achievements but clarified that he intends to take a different path. Amorim stated that he does not compare himself to Mourinho, recognizing the latter’s European titles while emphasizing that he is focused on forging his own legacy. His words reflect a determination to build something unique at Manchester United, rather than merely replicating past successes.
The coming weeks will be crucial for Amorim as he begins his tenure at Old Trafford. His first major test will come in an away fixture against Everton on Saturday, February 22, 2025, followed by a home game against Ipswich Town on Wednesday, February 26, 2025. These matches will offer the first glimpse of Amorim’s tactical approach and his ability to implement the changes necessary for the team’s resurgence. The performances in these games could set the tone for the rest of the season.
Despite the challenges ahead, Amorim has the advantage of learning from the mistakes of his predecessors. With Mourinho’s guidance and his own fresh perspective, he has the opportunity to create a more unified and strategically sound team. By addressing the issues that plagued Ten Hag’s tenure and adopting a more inclusive and calculated approach, Amorim could lay the foundation for a more stable and successful Manchester United.
Ultimately, Amorim’s success will depend on his ability to adapt and innovate while staying true to his vision. If he can blend Mourinho’s wisdom with his own managerial philosophy, he has the potential to restore Manchester United to its former glory.
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