Goal Explains Why Amorin Should Have Been Hired Six Months Ago

Manchester United’s performance at Anfield against league leaders Liverpool highlighted both the potential of Ruben Amorim’s coaching and the questionable timing of his appointment. United, struggling in the bottom half of the Premier League table, pulled off a determined 2-2 draw, nearly clinching a victory in a thrilling encounter. This result marked a turning point in a season that had seen disappointing results, but it also reignited discussions about whether Amorim should have been hired earlier. According to Goal, Amorim should have been hired six months ago because he needed time to send his tactical philosophy across to players.

Six months ago, Manchester United faced mounting pressure under Erik ten Hag. The decision to delay Amorim’s appointment limited his ability to instill his tactical philosophy effectively. The congested fixture list left him with only a few training sessions to work with the squad, hampering their cohesion. In contrast, the lead-up to the Liverpool clash allowed him six full days of preparation, a critical factor in United’s vastly improved performance. Amorim’s strategic approach at Anfield, which disrupted Liverpool’s midfield dominance and employed counterattacks in unison, showcased the kind of tactical clarity and discipline that United fans had been longing for.

United’s resilience began with a stunning opening goal from Lisandro Martinez. The Argentine defender, known as “The Butcher,” embodied leadership and determination, qualities Amorim had demanded from his squad. Martinez’s aggressive defensive play and pinpoint passing set the tone, while his thunderous strike from outside the box gave United a deserved lead. Despite a brief lapse that saw Liverpool score twice within minutes, Amad Diallo’s calm finish restored parity, reflecting the growing confidence and tactical awareness under Amorim’s guidance. Harry Maguire’s missed opportunity in added time was a bitter end, but it did not overshadow a performance that signaled hope for a revitalized team.

The appointment of Amorim, though belated, was a clear statement of intent. His previous success with Sporting CP and a tactical victory over Manchester City earlier this season showed his ability to challenge elite teams. However, critics point to the timing of his hiring as a costly mistake. Had Sir Jim Ratcliffe and United’s leadership been more decisive in removing Ten Hag and bringing in Amorim during the summer, the team might have avoided their current precarious position. The extra months would have allowed Amorim to integrate his playing philosophy, work on defensive stability, and build team chemistry during pre-season.

Amorim’s leadership was further evidenced by his pre-match comments about the squad’s need for leaders. His call for character was answered, with the team demonstrating a newfound mental toughness. Yet, this game also exposed lingering issues in defense. Matthijs de Ligt’s poor decisions directly contributed to Liverpool’s goals, highlighting the inconsistency that has plagued United. His unnecessary foul on Cody Gakpo and a reckless handball, which led to a penalty, contrasted sharply with Martinez’s commanding display.

The Anfield result underscores both progress and missed opportunities. Amorim’s influence is beginning to reshape Manchester United, but questions remain about what could have been achieved with more time. His upcoming test against Arsenal will be another chance to refine his methods and demonstrate that United’s resurgence is sustainable. For now, fans can only speculate on how different the season might have looked had Amorim’s era begun six months earlier.