"I don't think Amorim has any standing to question those who appointed him. Quite simply, he is not good enough. In fact, he currently lacks the ability to be a coach in the Premier League," Carragher commented on Sky Sports.
Following the 1-1 draw against Leeds in round 20 of the Premier League, Amorim drew attention by stating he joined Man Utd as a manager, not solely a head coach. He also hinted at the possibility of leaving Old Trafford when his contract expires in 2027. This statement fueled speculation about an increasingly strained relationship between Amorim and the club's board, including sporting director Jason Wilcox.
According to Sky Sports, the conflict not only revolves around the transfer strategy in the January window but also relates to long-term tactical direction. Amorim is reportedly no longer rigid with his familiar 3-4-3 formation, which became one of the reasons his relationship with his superiors further fractured.
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Coach Ruben Amorim reacts during Man Utd's 1-1 draw against Leeds at Elland Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom, in round 20 of the Premier League on 4/1. Photo: Reuters
Regarding transfers, Amorim wants Man Utd to spend heavily to compete for a Champions League spot, while the board remains committed to a long-term development plan. The Red Devils' priority is to add one or two quality central midfielders in the summer, along with the potential to sign more forwards, wingers, and center-backs, rather than breaking financial discipline in the short term.
The Man Utd board believes the current squad shortage will soon be resolved when Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo, and Noussair Mazraoui return after the Africa Cup of Nations, or when Mason Mount and Bruno Fernandes recover from injuries. However, Amorim is clearly dissatisfied with the pace of recruitment, especially as the team is stretched thin for its season objectives.
Carragher suggests Amorim's dissatisfaction can only stem from two reasons: not being backed in the transfer market, or being questioned by the board about constantly changing tactical systems. "Man Utd had shown signs of progress with a four-man defense, but Amorim reverted to a five-defender formation against Wolves, and that was perhaps their worst performance this season," the former Liverpool defender added.
Meanwhile, Gary Neville commented that Amorim's statements are an unusual sign at his former club. "Something has happened in the past week that has made Amorim start to show his displeasure. Clearly, he is unhappy with something at the club's top level," the former English defender said on his personal podcast.
Neville believes Amorim's emphasis on the "manager" role indicates he wants a broader say, not just on the training ground but also in areas such as transfers, the academy, and playing philosophy. "That always comes with pressure. I am surprised that after an away point, statements emerged that created an unnecessary fire," the 50-year-old former player said.
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Coach Ruben Amorim speaks with sporting director Jason Wilcox during a Man Utd training session.
According to Neville, Amorim is known for being direct and honest in press conferences, but speaking out against the club's top brass now could increase pressure. "Amorim has the right to say what he believes, but he is clearly creating an unnecessary fire, especially with important matches still ahead for Man Utd," Neville concluded.
Two consecutive 1-1 draws prevented Man Utd from improving their standing. They remain sixth in the Premier League with 31 points, level with Chelsea and three points behind Liverpool. On 7/1, Amorim's team will visit Burnley, the club currently second to last with 12 points.
Hong Duy (according to Sky Sports)

