He played like a true powerhouse and he’s as important as Amad. He proved that there’s still hope for Manchester United’s midfield. There are whispers that he could be left out despite his performance, but I’ll make sure he starts every game from now on” – Paul Scholes, a Manchester United legend, has praised the often-overlooked player after his outstanding display against Bournemouth.

Ruben Amorim’s tenure at Manchester United has been somewhat mixed since he took over from Erik ten Hag during the November international break. In his eight games so far, the Portuguese manager has won four, lost three, and drawn one, with his first match ending in a draw against Ipswich.

One of the standout moments in these games was the 2-1 victory over Manchester City in the Manchester derby, marking his second win over Pep Guardiola’s side this season, having previously beaten them 4-1 as Sporting manager.

A key player in this success has been Amad Diallo, who has been exceptional under Amorim. The Ivorian winger has scored two goals and provided six assists in eight games under the new manager, averaging a goal or assist every 80 minutes, according to football statistician Statman Dave.

Amad’s season had been frustrating under Ten Hag, despite a strong start with goals against Brighton and Southampton, but Amorim’s arrival has revitalized his form. Now a key player for United, Amad has scored five goals and assisted eight in 24 games this season. His seven assists place him third in the Premier League, behind only Bukayo Saka and Mohamed Salah.

Another player who has impressed under Amorim is Harry Maguire, who could start against Bournemouth on Sunday. Maguire has shown resilience despite a few setbacks at United. He has made 13 appearances so far this season, with nine in the Premier League.

After a standout performance in the Manchester derby, where he kept Erling Haaland quiet and won several tackles and duels, he could be in line for a start against Bournemouth, especially with other defenders like Matthijs de Ligt and Lisandro Martinez dealing with injuries.

Amorim has managed Maguire’s fitness well, ensuring he is not overused, and resting him for certain games like the Carabao Cup loss to Spurs. Maguire’s good form could see him start against Bournemouth as United looks to move up the table.
### **Ruben Amorim’s Mixed Start at Manchester United: Key Players Shine Despite Challenges**

Since taking over from Erik ten Hag during the November international break, Ruben Amorim’s tenure at Manchester United has been a mix of highs and lows. With a record of four wins, three losses, and one draw in his first eight matches, Amorim has shown glimpses of his potential while grappling with the challenges of restoring the team’s consistency.

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### **Key Moments Under Amorim**

#### **Manchester Derby Victory**
Amorim’s most notable achievement so far is the 2-1 victory over Manchester City. This marked his second win over Pep Guardiola this season, having previously beaten City 4-1 while managing Sporting. The result highlighted Amorim’s tactical acumen and ability to inspire his squad for big occasions.

#### **Amad Diallo’s Resurgence**
Amad Diallo has been a standout performer since Amorim’s arrival. The Ivorian winger has been directly involved in eight goals (two goals, six assists) in just eight games under Amorim, averaging a goal contribution every 80 minutes.

Amad’s overall season tally of five goals and eight assists in 24 games has made him one of United’s most productive players, with his seven Premier League assists placing him third in the league behind Bukayo Saka and Mohamed Salah. Amorim’s system seems to have unlocked Amad’s creative potential, revitalizing his form after a frustrating period under Ten Hag.

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### **Harry Maguire’s Redemption**
Harry Maguire has also impressed under Amorim, particularly in the Manchester derby, where he effectively neutralized Erling Haaland and showcased his defensive resilience. With injuries to key defenders like Matthijs de Ligt and Lisandro Martinez, Maguire’s performances have been critical.

Amorim has managed Maguire’s fitness carefully, rotating him to ensure he remains fresh and effective. Maguire’s 13 appearances this season, including nine in the Premier League, reflect his growing importance in United’s defense. His form could earn him another start against Bournemouth on Sunday, a match United must win to climb the table.

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### **Challenges Ahead**
Despite these individual successes, United’s inconsistency remains a concern. Losses to Arsenal, Nottingham Forest, and Tottenham have highlighted the team’s vulnerabilities, and Amorim will need to address these issues to build momentum.

As United prepares to face Bournemouth, Amorim must strike a balance between maintaining his key players’ form and addressing the broader tactical challenges to propel the team out of mid-table mediocrity.

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### **Conclusion**
Ruben Amorim’s short tenure at Manchester United has shown promise, with players like Amad Diallo and Harry Maguire stepping up under his leadership. However, the team’s inconsistent performances suggest there is still much work to be done. The upcoming match against Bournemouth offers an opportunity for Amorim to solidify his tactical approach and help United move closer to the upper half of the Premier League table.