BREAKING NEWS: “Ruben is an amazing coach but there’s ONE particular problem affecting the club and that’s why I left…Amorim will never succeed if that problem is not rectified”: Manchester United’s legend Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has explained why Ruben Amorim is not doing well at the club.
In a candid interview, Manchester United legend Ole Gunnar Solskjaer shed light on the challenges current manager Ruben Amorim is facing at the club. Solskjaer, who managed United from 2018 to 2021, praised Amorim’s coaching abilities but highlighted a persistent issue that he believes hampers any manager’s success at Old Trafford.
Solskjaer’s Perspective
“Ruben is an exceptional coach,” Solskjaer remarked. “His tactical acumen and ability to inspire players are commendable. However, there’s a deep-seated problem within the club’s structure that undermines managerial efforts. It’s the same reason I had to leave. If this issue isn’t addressed, even someone of Amorim’s caliber will struggle to achieve the desired success.”
While Solskjaer refrained from specifying the exact problem, his tenure was marked by challenges related to internal dynamics and decision-making processes. His comments suggest that these systemic issues persist, potentially hindering Amorim’s ability to implement his vision fully.
Amorim’s Journey and Challenges
Ruben Amorim’s appointment in November 2024 was met with optimism. The 39-year-old Portuguese manager had previously led Sporting Lisbon to multiple league titles and was considered one of Europe’s most promising coaching talents. His rapid rise in management, including a notable stint at Braga, showcased his potential to rejuvenate teams.
However, transitioning to a club of Manchester United’s stature presents unique challenges. The expectations are immense, and the internal environment can be complex. Reports indicate that Amorim has encountered difficulties in addressing the team’s defensive frailties, particularly concerning set-piece vulnerabilities. United has conceded nine goals from set pieces this season, ranking them among the poorest in the Premier League in this aspect. 
Mourinho’s Insights
Adding another layer to the narrative, former United manager Jose Mourinho, who mentored Amorim during his early coaching days, offered his perspective a few months ago. Mourinho expressed confidence in Amorim’s capabilities, stating, “I like Ruben as a person and as a manager. He can coach any club in any league.” 
Mourinho’s endorsement underscores Amorim’s potential. However, it also hints at the complexities of managing a club like Manchester United, where external talent and internal challenges must align for success.
The Path Forward
Amorim’s tenure at United is still in its early stages, and he remains optimistic about steering the club back to its former glory. In his inaugural press conference, he stated, “I believe I am the right person for this moment. I understand the players, and I aim to help them as Mourinho did in his era.” 
However, Solskjaer’s recent revelations serve as a cautionary note. Addressing internal structural issues is crucial for creating an environment where managerial strategies can flourish. Without such reforms, even the most talented coaches may find it challenging to navigate the intricacies of leading a club with Manchester United’s legacy and expectations.
As the season progresses, stakeholders and fans alike will keenly observe how Amorim tackles these challenges. The hope is that with the right support and structural adjustments, he can overcome the obstacles that previously hindered his predecessors and lead Manchester United to renewed success.
Manchester United’s recent challenges have prompted insights from former manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who expressed concerns about deep-seated structural issues at the club. While acknowledging current manager Ruben Amorim’s coaching talents, Solskjaer suggested that these systemic problems could impede any manager’s success at Old Trafford.
Amorim’s Tenure and Defensive Challenges:
Since his appointment in November 2024, Amorim has encountered significant defensive issues, particularly concerning set-piece vulnerabilities. The team has conceded 17 goals from set pieces over the past year, marking their worst record in this aspect since the Premier League’s inception.
Recent Performance and Defensive Frailties:
In a recent 3-2 victory over Ipswich, United’s defensive frailties were evident, with central defenders struggling to adapt to Amorim’s preferred back-three system. The team heavily relied on set-piece goals delivered by Bruno Fernandes, highlighting ongoing challenges in open play.
Mourinho’s Perspective:
Former manager José Mourinho, who previously mentored Amorim, expressed confidence in his capabilities, stating that Amorim possesses the skills to manage any club in any league. This endorsement underscores Amorim’s potential while acknowledging the complexities inherent in managing a club of Manchester United’s stature.
Path Forward:
Addressing internal structural issues is crucial for creating an environment where managerial strategies can thrive. Without such reforms, even the most talented coaches may struggle to navigate the intricacies of leading a club with Manchester United’s legacy and expectations. As the season progresses, stakeholders and fans alike will keenly observe how Amorim tackles these challenges, hoping that with the right support and structural adjustments, he can overcome obstacles that previously hindered his predecessors and lead Manchester United to renewed success.
