Ruben Amorim won his first Premier League game with Manchester United against Everton
Ruben Amorim won his first Premier League game with Manchester United against Everton (Image: Getty Images)
Ruben Amorim's Manchester United are finally starting to click after three games. After drawing with Ipswich Town in his first game, Amorim has led his side to two consecutive victories.
Since taking over from Erik ten Hag, the Portuguese has made it a priority to vocally back his players, boosting their confidence significantly. Recognising the team's potential even before his appointment at Old Trafford, Amorim identified that despite winning just four of their initial 14 matches under Erik ten Hag, the players were not delivering to their full capacity.
He was confident in their abilities and knew that with the right mindset, they could once again excel. Amorim was aware that substantial rebuilding would not be financially viable until the summer, meaning he needed to make the most of the current squad to push for a Champions League spot this season.
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His strategy of offering public encouragement seems to be fruitful, as several key players have stepped up their game with the new manager at the helm. Here, we examine the impact Amorim's approbation has had on eight United stars and delve into why they've merited such commendation, via the Mirror.
Marcus Rashford
Marcus Rashford stands out as one of Amorim’s major success stories so far. The striker, who previously played for England, has found the back of the net thrice in two starting appearances since Amorim took over.
This comes after a lengthy period of lacklustre performance spanning 18 months. Amorim believes Rashford has a wealth of untapped potential, referencing his 34 goals scored during the 2022-23 season for both club and country.
Following a brace against Everton, Amorim expressed, "He has to continue to improve. He has the ability to do it and he already has proved that. He can play so much better, like the other guys."
Amad Diallo
Diallo received limited opportunities under Ten Hag, but Ruud van Nistelrooy spotted the Ivorian's potential. Under his guidance, Diallo netted two goals and contributed an assist; he has continued this form with three assists while playing for Amorim.
"He was really good defensively and really good attacking, and he has to continue to play like that," commented Amorim.
Joshua Zirkzee
Netherlands forward Joshua Zirkzee emerged as one of Amorim's most surprising early success stories. After scoring on his debut against Fulham, his performance initially plummeted, but when given his first league start since late September against Everton by Amorim, he bounced back impressively, bagging a brace.
"Josh did a great job," remarked Amorim. "He scored two goals, which is always important for the confidence."
Joshua Zirkzee
Joshua Zirkzee scored for the first time since August against Everton (Image: Getty Images)
Bruno Fernandes
It was apparent that Fernandes, a compatriot of Amorim, needed to be instated as captain, a move that has since materialised. Even though he didn't score under Ten Hag's management, since the Dutch coach's departure, Fernandes has scored five times and provided four assists over seven matches.
"You can feel it that he's the most experienced player," said Amorim.
Rasmus Hojlund
Struggling with injuries and a dip in form, Hojlund appeared out of touch this season and even under Van Nistelrooy, he wasn't up to speed. But, after being placed in the starting lineup against Bodo Glimt by Amorim, he responded with two goals and an assist.
"He's a quality player," Amorim praised. "I think he scores the most difficult goals."
Noussair Mazraoui
Ruben Amorim has been vocal about Noussair Mazraoui's importance to the team, praising his adaptability after full matches against Ipswich and Bodo Glimt, and a partial game against Everton. "He's an incredible player, he's our future," Amorim declared.
"He played in different positions and this kind of player is what we need."
Mason Mount
Mount's tenure at Old Trafford has been marred by injuries, yet Amorim's faith remains unwavering, evidenced by starts and substitutions in recent games. "You see some moments and details where you can see that Mason is a proper footballer," Amorim observed.
"We believe in him a lot and I especially believe a lot in Mason."
Diogo Dalot
Dalot, too, garners high expectations from Amorim, featuring in all three games since the manager's arrival, including a stint as left wing-back. Amorim commends his versatility and foresees a significant role for him at United.
"He's a very good player, very powerful and can play both sides," Amorim noted. "Nowadays, a player who can play on both sides is perfect."
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