News broke Thursday morning that United had reached an agreement with Sporting Lisbon to bring Amorim on board, just days after sacking Ten Hag following a 2-1 defeat to West Ham. United informed Sporting of their intention to trigger Amorim’s release clause—reported to be around €10 million (£8.3 million)—after he verbally agreed to take on the role.
The 39-year-old is set to manage his first United match on November 24 against Ipswich Town, but he’ll remain with Sporting for games against Estrela Amadora, Manchester City, and Braga before moving to Manchester.
As he steps into the role, Amorim will face several complex challenges. Former United assistant manager Mike Phelan believes that establishing a distinct playing style will be key to his success.
“He’s inheriting a unique group of players, and he knows results haven’t been ideal,” Phelan told *talkSPORT*. “For Manchester United and the new coach, establishing a clear identity on the pitch will be critical. Who will they become under Amorim?”
Phelan added, “He’ll need to make an impact relatively quickly—something that fans and the board will expect.”
Amorim’s arrival brings hope, but he has his work cut out for him. Here are some of the issues he’ll face.
**Trimming the Squad**
Amorim has reportedly spoken with United’s board about his transfer priorities, with *Team Talk* claiming players like Christian Eriksen, Victor Lindelof, Casemiro, and Antony may not be in his long-term plans. United’s board also reportedly agrees that some current performances don’t reflect the players’ salaries.
**Revitalizing Marcus Rashford**
Rashford, who has scored four goals in 15 games this season, is reportedly “thrilled” at the prospect of working with Amorim, believing the Portuguese coach can help him find his best form. Rashford has shown flashes of his potential, and Amorim’s personable coaching style could be key to unlocking his consistency.
**Adapting the Defense to a New Formation**
Amorim is known for his 3-4-3 formation, with an emphasis on high pressing and possession. His teams attack in a 3-2-5 shape and defend compactly in a 5-2-3 structure, a departure from Ten Hag’s approach. United have options at center-back, including Lisandro Martinez, Matthijs de Ligt, Leny Yoro, Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelof, and Jonny Evans, who will need to adjust to this new system.
**Addressing Left-Back Issues**
Amorim prefers dynamic wing-backs, but United lack a fit left-back. Luke Shaw faces a prolonged absence due to injury, and Tyrell Malacia hasn’t played since May 2023 after knee surgery. United have been linked to Benfica’s Alvaro Carreras, who reportedly has a £16 million buy-back clause, as a potential solution.
**Boosting Goal Production**
United’s struggles with goal-scoring have been a major concern, as they’ve managed only eight goals in their first nine league games. Amorim brings a proven record in this area—his Sporting side scored 96 goals in their title-winning season last year, with Viktor Gyokeres netting 29. In the short term, Amorim will need to motivate Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee, who have only one league goal each.
With Amorim at the helm, United’s board and fans are hopeful he can guide the team back to winning ways. The coming months will test his abilities to navigate these challenges and make a lasting impact.
