Ruben Amorim is reportedly close to only two Manchester United players, with members of the squad beginning to notice which stars have become their new manager's favourites. Amorim has not given the Red Devils the manager bounce most would have expected since replacing Erik ten Hag back in November.
The introduction of the 40-year-old's preferred 3-4-3 system has caused some teething problems at Old Trafford as the players attempt to adapt to a tactic they have never played before. However, it is not just Amorim's setup that is raising eyebrows, as those playing under him are beginning to notice which personnel he favours and how his approach to relationships with the squad has differed from that of Ten Hag's.
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Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot Favourites of Amorim
The manager has resisted to getting too close with his squad
According to a report from the Manchester Evening News, Portuguese stars Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot have emerged as the two players who have become closest to their new manager, with Amorim deliberately trying to keep his distance from the majority of the squad.
It is perhaps not overly surprising to hear that the two names the former Sporting man has built a strong connection with are fellow Portuguese natives, but it is believed that the rest of his players have noticed that there is a closeness between the trio that Amorim doesn't share with the rest of the squad.
The report states that the reason for this approach is that, with a major squad overhaul planned in the coming months, the United boss is avoiding getting too attached to his players in case they are eventually moved on. The man himself also claimed in January that the club's hectic schedule had prevented him from getting to know his squad on a more intimate level, as he had to focus on preparing for games.
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Difference Noticed Between Amorim and Ten Hag
There was also praise for Ruud van Nistelrooy
The MEN report also notes that Amorim's approach is completely different to that of former boss Ten Hag, who was said to have built much closer relationships with his players during his two and a half years in charge. It was claimed that, despite some of the Dutchman's high-profile fallouts during his tenure, he remained loyal to the players and forged strong bonds with many of the squad, particularly those who had previously played under him at Ajax.
Ten Hag was also a popular figure among academy graduates such as Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho, who were given their first opportunities in the senior squad under him.
There was also praise for Ruud van Nistelrooy for his short stint in charge as interim manager prior to Amorim's arrival. The former striker pleased several players with his man-management skills and remained unbeaten as temporary boss before leaving when his successor was confirmed.
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All statistics courtesy of Transfermarkt - accurate as of 14/02/2025.