Ruben Amorim’s remarks about Manchester United’s leadership sparked a strong response, leading to a gritty performance against Liverpool and Arsenal.
This wasn’t about tactics or skills; it was all mental. Not everyone can be a leader, but with the talent in that squad, you’d expect at least a few to take charge. Amorim was spot on with his assessment.
His comment during a pre-match press conference clearly stung the players. Coaches often use these moments to send a message, and Amorim did just that. When they faced Liverpool, the players knew exactly what he thought of them.
They responded well, putting in a tough performance and earning a valuable point. Afterward, both Amorim and the players credited their improved attitude for the change. They followed it up with a dramatic FA Cup win against Arsenal, even after playing with 10 men for an hour. They really showed their heart.
There was a lot of hope for progress under Amorim, and it finally came together. With a couple of free weeks to train, the team was expected to step up again, especially with most of the players who played against Liverpool back in action.
While they looked solid defensively, they struggled to break through Arsenal’s organized defense. Their possession game didn’t show much improvement, and they often found themselves pushed back.
United seemed most vulnerable when the ball was with Altay Bayindir, whether he was kicking it or holding it. Arsenal’s defense was well-structured, making it tough for United to build up their plays. When Bayindir went long, it played right into Arsenal’s hands.
But when he tried to play short to Matthijs de Ligt or Lisandro Martinez, things got tricky. The ball would go sideways instead of forward, and Arsenal’s pressing made it hard for United to find their rhythm.
United played better when the game got chaotic. They needed space to exploit rather than trying to break through Arsenal’s well-organized setup.
Their goal came from a turnover. Alejandro Garnacho managed to get past Myles Lewis-Skelly and found some space. His pass to Bruno Fernandes was a bit shaky, but the finish was top-notch.
Just when they seemed to be in control, a mistake changed everything. Dalot’s heavy touch put him in a tough spot, and his decision to challenge Mikel Merino was questionable. There might not have been contact, but the intent was clear. Referee Andrew Madley had a rough game, but he got this call right.
That decision shifted the momentum, especially when Gabriel equalized after a deflection off De Ligt.
Despite that setback, the team showed the character Amorim wanted to see. They approached the game with the right mindset for the second week in a row.
Even when things got tough in the first half, they stayed solid and focused. When the referee’s calls went against them, they stuck together and kept the game tight. It should be a given, but it hasn’t always been.
They played like a team of leaders. From struggling to thriving, Amorim’s desire for leadership might finally be met.
