Ruben Amorim has been putting his Manchester United players through their paces during pre-season, with one new rule introduced that has had an immediate impact
Ruben Amorim, Manager of Manchester United, reacts whilst in a huddle with teammates during a training session ahead of the UEFA Europa League 2024/25 semi final second leg match between Manchester United and Athletic Club at Carrington Training Ground on May 07, 2025 in Manchester, England
Ruben Amorim's new rule has brought more competitiveness to Manchester United's training sessions
(Image: 2025 Getty Images)
Ruben Amorim has implemented a fresh rule at Manchester United whereby the defeated side in training must collect all the kit utilised that session.
The Portuguese boss' inaugural season, following his appointment to replace Erik ten Hag last November, turned out to be less than ideal. Nevertheless, matters have been improving for him during pre-season, with United claiming the Premier League Summer Series crown in the USA.
The Red Devils secured wins against West Ham and Bournemouth, whilst also managing a 2-2 draw with Everton. Amorim has been leaving no stone unturned in his mission to revolutionise United, who faced frequent criticism throughout the last campaign.
One of his approaches has involved bringing a competitive element to training exercises, creating a more demanding atmosphere. The Athletic recently provided an in-depth examination of Amorim's coaching sessions across the Atlantic.
A crucial aspect was implementing penalties for losing sides, which typically means they must gather up the equipment from that day's practice. United youngster Toby Collyer spoke directly about the regulation, stating: "Everyone wants to be the team that wins.
"You don't have to get the gear in then. It's a jeopardy if you lose! All the other teams have to get the gear in."
Full-back Diogo Dalot also addressed how expectations during pre-season have been elevated compared to last term. The Portugal international added: "If you want to be in Manchester United, you need to match some standards. If you can't match them, it's not a place for you. The message is really clear."
Head Coach Ruben Amorim of Manchester United in action during a first team training session ahead of the UEFA Europa League Final 2025 between Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United at Carrington Training Ground on May 20, 2025 in Manchester, England
Ruben Amorim has been busy over the course of the pre-season(Image: Photo by Manchester United/Manchester United via Getty Images)
The piece also provided a glimpse into Amorim's efforts to improve his squad's grasp of his favoured 3-4-3 system. The United manager remained steadfast with his preferred setup, even during the team's most challenging periods.
In training, he positions his defenders in his chosen back five formation, with substitute defenders positioned behind the first-choice players as he moves them left and right by directing the ball to specific areas of the field. It can prove a lengthy and demanding exercise, but Amorim remains completely committed to the finer points.
Another section of the field where United were consistently outplayed was the centre of the park. This campaign, Amorim is convinced his squad will be capable of controlling the midfield battle.
Ruben Amorim, Head Coach of Manchester United, reacts during the Premier League Summer Series match between Manchester United and Everton FC at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on August 03, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia
United's pre-season has been largely positive(Image: 2025 Kevin C. Cox - Premier League)
When questioned about his optimism, he explained: "I think it's the time to train. Even the certainty of the movements can help a player to be faster, if you are thinking, 'I jump, I don't jump.' We train when they need to jump; they already know. Sometimes it's one metre, one second. That is something that the tactical aspect and the physical aspect are together."
United have a daunting start to the new Premier League season. On the opening day, they welcome title-contending Arsenal to Old Trafford before a challenging journey to Fulham the subsequent week.
A home match against newly promoted Burnley is quickly followed by the Manchester Derby at the Etihad Stadium which is then followed by another home fixture against Chelsea.