Ruben Amorim, head coach Manchester United, is facing an irony paradox: He is praised for his frankness, but that is pushing the club into a serious confidence disorder. In a football environment more and more diplomatic words and avoiding the truth, Amorim stands out by the straight and responsible way of speaking. However, when honesty does not come with the results, it is easy to become a double -edged sword.
The Portuguese military leader is not wrong to identify this as the worst Manchester United collective in the Premier League era – a shocking but consistent with the reality after the defeat of West Ham right at home. It is worth mentioning that after that speech, the new coach was publicly questioned about his future, announcing he would be ready to leave if he did not improve his achievement next season.
It is rare in modern football, where the coach often dodges the responsibility. But the question is: Does that honesty are harming himself and the team?
The problem is that the former captain of Sporting Lisbon seems to be better than training. During his dynasty, Man Utd’s gameplay not only did not improve but also decided. When Amorim arrives in November last year, just win the Ipswich and MU will be 5 points away from the top 2. Currently, the team is fluttering in 16th place and only 39 points. Despite reaching the Europa League final, what happens in the domestic league is a disaster.
The resolutely keeping the philosophy of 3-4-3 despite the quality of the player and the tactical suitability is also what makes Amorim question mark. Meanwhile, coach Oliver Glasner – with the inferior squad in quality at Crystal Palace – is more successful with the same system, even to the FA Cup final. This clearly reveals the limitations in Amorim’s flexibility. Principles and philosophy are good, but a good coach must know how to adapt in real circumstances.
It is undeniable that the Portuguese strategist needs his own squad, which MU has not yet met. Strict transfer market, limited budget and the number of players who need to liquidate too large makes the rebuilding the squad almost impossible in the short term.
But the more dangerous thing is psychological impact. A team is constantly heard that they are “not good enough” from the head coach – although not only the name – will lose confidence in themselves. Although Amorim always acknowledged and kept a peaceful attitude, the collective criticism was still the abilities that the players could not ignore.
Honestly a respectable, especially in fake football environment. But if that honesty makes the collective lose confidence, loss of orientation and no longer the ability to fight, it will backfire. Perhaps Amorim believes that MU needs to touch the bottom to revive. But between ideals and reality always exist, and if not timely adjusted, maybe he will be the one who must leave before witnessing the “dawn” after the darkness.
