Ruben Amorim's year at Man Utd: 5 defining milestones
After 12 months of taking over from Erik ten Hag, Ruben Amorim removed privileges, tightened dressing room discipline, adjusted transfer policy, was frank in the media and still has the academy problem.
“The worst team in the club’s history.” His words after the 3-1 defeat to Brighton revealed his frustration, but also showed how Ruben Amorim faced the truth. A year at Old Trafford ended with clashes, fierceness and clear signs of rebuilding: Man Utd were more disciplined, more driven and less compromising.
1. Competition discipline: remove privileges, keep your place with effort
From the very beginning, Amorim laid the foundation: effort decides everything, name has no value. The old arguments about favoring one person and ignoring another no longer exist. Bruno, Marcus Rashford, Casemiro or young players, all have the same measure: practice well, be ready to sacrifice for the team to play.
Casemiro is a prime example. Once considered a fifth-choice option in midfield, he has regained his place thanks to his attitude and work ethic. The message is getting across: reputation no longer guarantees a starting spot at Man Utd.
2. Refresh the locker room: put the team before the ego
More than just tactics, Amorim has a strong influence on the team culture. Ego overshadows the collective – from young talent to team icons – and there is a price to pay. Alejandro Garnacho once protested when he was benched, and Marcus Rashford was dropped from the squad and then loaned out.
The aim is a disciplined, stable dressing room – something Man Utd have lacked for years since Jose Mourinho. Consistency in behavioural standards is the foundation for tactics to thrive.
3. Pragmatic transfer: more suitable than “famous”
In the summer of 2025, Man Utd will shop in a realistic way. In line with the requirements of suitability for the Premier League, INEOS and Amorim will prioritize profiles with the ability to integrate: bringing in Matheus Cunha, pursuing Bryan Mbeumo to the end, and replacing Rasmus Hojlund with Benjamin Sesko.
The signal is clear: players who have not proven themselves in two years will have to leave. These tough decisions give the impression that Man Utd are building a competitive team, no longer signing contracts just to make a splash.
4. Straightforward communication: emotional, but face responsibility
Amorim speaks frankly and honestly. His comments after the 3-1 defeat to Brighton were shocking, but they accurately reflected the level of frustration. In a context where many managers choose to avoid the issue, his approach is seen as a breath of fresh air. Compared to blaming circumstances, Amorim accepts the reality of the situation, along with a commitment to change.
5. Academy: unfinished business
Coming from an environment that has discovered young talent, Amorim has yet to fully exploit the Man Utd academy in his first year. Chido Obi, Harry Amass, Tyler Fredricson have had their chances, but none have really stepped into the first team. Many potential faces such as Shea Lacey, Jack Fletcher, Sekou Kone are still waiting for their chance.
This season's FA Cup is expected to be a stage for Amorim to be bolder with the next generation - a necessary step if they want to build a sustainable dynasty.
Impact and direction
After a year, Man Utd under Amorim is not perfect, but it is clearer. Internal discipline is tightened, personnel policy is carefully screened, the message of "no privileges" is maintained. The trust from the board of directors in Amorim is affirmed, laying the foundation for the next decisions in the transfer market and youth promotion roadmap.
The new era is defined by simple principles: fairness, discipline and efficiency. For Man Utd, after years of drifting, having such a direction is perhaps the most important victory of the first year.
