Sporting star Pedro Gonçalves has previously explained the influence Ruben Amorim had on him as Manchester United plot a summer move for him.
Manchester United have emerged from one of their most underwhelming seasons in recent history, and major changes are essential to get the club back on track at Old Trafford.
This summer’s priority must be to recruit top-tier players like Matheus Cunha while moving on from individuals who no longer fit the club’s long-term vision.
Ruben Amorim faces mounting pressure to adapt his tactical approach to the intensity and demands of the Premier League after a tough initial spell.
Many believe this transfer window could be a turning point — a defining moment that may spark lasting improvement if the right strategic choices are made.
What Gonçalves said about Amorim as United plot move
Reports this week have revealed that United are considering a move for Sporting star Pedro Gonçalves should Bruno Fernandes leave the club. Although, it was also stated that a move could still be considered even if the club captain remains at Old Trafford.
During Amorim’s time in charge of the Portuguese club, Gonçalves excelled – he scored 81 goals and registered 57 assists in 190 games under the current United boss.
The 26-year-old was emotional when it was confirmed that Amorim would be moving to Old Trafford and explained to the media how important he was during his Sporting career. “I wouldn’t be here today [without him],” Gonçalves told Canal 11 in November last year.
“We had a very strong bond, both professionally and personally. He liked my wife very much and was concerned about my well-being, both on the field and in my family life. He knew when players were happy or sad, and he knew exactly what to say.
“We were sad. I started crying because I really liked him, and I was sad. I never told him not to go; I wished him good luck. The players understood. He was like a father to us. We were sad, but we understood. I wish him the best of luck.”
Amorim needs to build similar relationships at United
Amorim has been unable to build such a close personal bond with his players at United so far. Partly because some of them are not in his long-term plans, and also that he hasn’t had much time outside of the week-to-week life in the Premier League.
This summer is not only important for the club’s hierarchy to back Amorim with signings to improve his squad, but also for him to develop further relationships with his players.
Read More: Manchester United react to Man City’s Rayan Cherki offer by planning to beat Premier League rivals to 20-year-old star
It is clear that the likes of Gonçalves were willing to fight to the end for the 40-year-old at Sporting. Whether or not the Reds end up signing the attacking midfielder, Amorim needs to have that same relationship with his United stars.
There are no distractions this summer, with a full pre-season tour scheduled, and it seems like the United boss is looking forward to finally turning a corner after a difficult first season at the club.
Make sure to follow UtdDistrict on X, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok to never miss out on any of our Manchester United content. Our podcast, What the Devil?, is streamed live every Thursday at 12:30 pm (BST) on the United View YouTube channel.