According to Sky Sports, Man Utd's leadership is committed to avoiding hasty decisions. They believe in Amorim's long-term project and want to break the cycle of frequent managerial changes that has plagued the club for 12 years since Alex Ferguson's retirement.

"There will be no managerial review after every defeat. We understand this is a multi-year process," a club source shared.

Manager Ruben Amorim after Man Utd's loss to Man City at Etihad Stadium, Manchester, UK, during the 4th round of the Premier League on 14/9/2025. *Photo: Reuters*

Amorim also affirmed his commitment to his football philosophy. After the loss to Man City, the 40-year-old manager stated, "I won't change my philosophy. If they want a different approach, they need a different manager.”

This statement implies that the "Red Devils" will continue with a three-center-back formation or Amorim will be dismissed. Man Utd's board understood this when they appointed him in 11/2024.

However, the pressure is mounting. After four rounds, Man Utd has only four points, placing them 14th in the league, and they were eliminated early from the League Cup. Last season, they achieved their lowest ever Premier League points total (42) and suffered their most defeats (15). This weekend's match against Chelsea at Old Trafford will be a further test of the Portuguese manager's position.

Beyond the results, Man Utd's playing style is also under scrutiny. Amorim adheres to a three-center-back system but lacks the right personnel. Patrick Dorgu is considered unsuitable as a left wing-back. Meanwhile, young talent Kobbie Mainoo has yet to start a Premier League match this season, raising questions among fans.

CEO Omar Berrada and Director of Football Jason Wilcox remain patient. They believe the team is losing due to small details. For example, in the derby, if Bryan Mbeumo's volley hadn't been brilliantly saved by Gianluigi Donnarumma, or if Casemiro hadn't missed a chance at the far post, the result might have been different. Additionally, injuries to Mason Mount and Matheus Cunha have reduced squad depth compared to other "Big 6" clubs.

Despite their support, the board's positions are also at risk if the situation worsens. Berrada and Wilcox have placed their faith in Amorim, meaning his dismissal could also lead to their departures. Previously, billionaire Jim Ratcliffe sacked Sporting Director Dan Ashworth for not supporting Amorim's appointment.

British media reports suggest a potential escape route for Amorim if Old Trafford becomes untenable. Leading candidate for the Benfica presidency, Joao Noronha Lopes, attended the derby with former striker Nuno Gomes, a close friend of Amorim. Lopes expressed his desire to bring Amorim back to Lisbon if elected. "One day, Amorim will manage Benfica," Gomes stated.

While a return to Portugal is possible, Amorim remains focused on his work at Old Trafford. "I know the fans are hurting, but I hurt even more that I haven't been able to turn things around yet," he said.

Hoang An (*Sky Sports, Daily Mail*)