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Manchester United Manager Ruben Amorim Emphasizes Key Relationship for Success
Ruben Amorim, the Manchester United manager, has highlighted the critical importance of a strong working relationship with technical director Jason Wilcox, drawing parallels to his successful partnership with Hugo Viana at Sporting Lisbon. As Manchester City’s Hugo Viana was present at Sunday’s derby at Old Trafford, it underscored for Amorim how vital his rapport with Wilcox will be in revitalizing Manchester United’s fortunes. Amorim and Viana previously formed a potent alliance at Sporting, securing two league titles before both transitioned to Manchester clubs.
The Significance of Sporting Director Collaboration
Technical director Jason Wilcox is relatively new to Old Trafford, assuming increased responsibility for player recruitment following Dan Ashworth’s departure. Amorim stressed the necessity of a cohesive bond with Wilcox, particularly with Manchester United navigating Financial Fair Play regulations and co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s concerns regarding financial performance. Strategic player acquisitions and sales will be essential for the club.
‘We need to have a great connection,’ Amorim affirmed. ‘I was very fortunate to collaborate with Hugo. The dynamic with Jason is similar, and I am confident in this area.’ He added, ‘While the context at Sporting was different, the need for astute recruitment remains paramount in this highly competitive environment.’
Ruben Amorim revealed he ‘needs’ to have a good connection with technical director Jason Wilcox at Man United like he did with Hugo Viana at Sporting Lisbon
Amorim revealed he has ‘more or less’ as good of a relationship with United’s technical director
Amorim and Viana won two league titles together at Sporting before leaving to work on opposite sides of Manchester
Strategic Recruitment for Manchester United’s System
Amorim emphasized the need for targeted player acquisitions that align with Manchester United’s tactical approach. ‘We need to understand our system, our style of play, and ensure new players are perfectly suited for their roles. We have a clear strategy, and we look forward to implementing it next season.’
Potential Transfer Activity and Squad Management
Manchester United has been linked with several players, including Sporting striker Victor Gyokeres and Borussia Dortmund midfielder Felix Nmecha. However, the club will also need to streamline the squad through player sales. While there are hopes that Marcus Rashford, Antony, and Jadon Sancho – currently on loan – could generate transfer revenue, the club might consider selling highly-regarded academy graduates like Kobbie Mainoo or Alejandro Garnacho as a last resort.
Youth Development and Squad Depth
The emergence of young defender Ayden Heaven has lessened the immediate need for another central defender, particularly with Lisandro Martinez expected to return from injury. Amorim acknowledged the positive aspects arising from challenging situations. ‘I am genuinely enthusiastic about next season but also feel the pressure to succeed,’ Amorim admitted.
Addressing injury concerns, he stated, ‘While injuries are unfortunate, they can also reveal unforeseen strengths. Garnacho’s versatility on the right wing and Ayden’s readiness for the first team squad are examples of positives we’ve discovered. This may influence our approach in the transfer market. There are always positives to be found amidst challenges.’
Amid United’s deep injury crisis this season, Amorim revealed that some silver linings have appeared, such as teenage star Ayden Heaven at centre back
Amorim is seeking a personal hat-trick of wins against Man City on Sunday afternoon
Anticipating the Manchester Derby
Amorim aims to achieve a personal milestone of three victories against Manchester City this season, having previously defeated them in the Champions League with Sporting and securing a late win at The Etihad with Manchester United. Reflecting on those wins, Amorim remarked with a smile, ‘Perhaps there was an element of luck in the first game. In the first half, it could have been 4-0 to them, yet we won 4-1.’
Regarding the second victory against City, he added, ‘The second win, secured in the final moments, was particularly satisfying. They may have dominated possession slightly more, but we competed fiercely.’ Looking ahead to the upcoming derby, Amorim acknowledged the need for more than luck. ‘We are prepared for the game and are progressing in various aspects of our play. Improvement is evident, even if results don’t always reflect it immediately. We must maintain this trajectory.’
Adapting Tactics for Different Challenges
Amorim concluded by highlighting tactical adaptability. ‘We understand that the Manchester City game will be different from the Nottingham Forest match. We are adjusting our approach accordingly and are actively working on our game plan.’