In a revealing interview, Manchester United legend Ole Gunnar Solskjaer shared his thoughts on the challenges facing current manager Ruben Amorim. While praising Amorim’s coaching ability, Solskjaer pointed to a deeper structural issue at the club that, in his view, continues to undermine managerial success at Old Trafford.
Solskjaer’s Concerns
“Ruben is a fantastic coach,” Solskjaer said. “His tactical expertise and leadership qualities are impressive. However, there’s a long-standing problem within the club’s structure that makes it difficult for any manager to succeed. It’s the same issue I faced before leaving. Unless it’s addressed, even someone of Amorim’s caliber will struggle to achieve the club’s ambitions.”
Though Solskjaer did not specify the exact issue, his tenure was marked by difficulties related to internal decision-making and club dynamics. His remarks suggest that these challenges remain and could hinder Amorim’s ability to fully implement his vision.
Amorim’s Challenges at United
Since taking charge in November 2024, Amorim has faced a steep learning curve at Manchester United. The 39-year-old Portuguese coach arrived with high expectations, having guided Sporting Lisbon to multiple league titles and built a strong reputation in European football. However, managing a club of United’s stature comes with unique pressures.
One of the biggest concerns under Amorim has been United’s defensive vulnerabilities, particularly from set pieces. The team has conceded 17 goals from dead-ball situations over the past year—its worst record in this area since the inception of the Premier League. This issue was evident in a recent 3-2 win over Ipswich, where United’s back-three system struggled to contain threats, despite relying on Bruno Fernandes’ set-piece deliveries for goals.
Mourinho’s Perspective
Adding further insight, former United manager José Mourinho—who previously mentored Amorim—expressed confidence in his abilities. “Ruben is a great manager and a great person. He can coach any club in any league,” Mourinho said. His endorsement highlights Amorim’s potential but also acknowledges the complexities of managing a club like Manchester United, where expectations and internal challenges must align for success.
Looking Ahead
Despite the difficulties, Amorim remains optimistic about steering United back to the top. In his first press conference, he expressed confidence in his ability to guide the squad: *“I believe I am the right person for this moment. I understand the players, and I aim to help them as Mourinho did in his time.”
However, Solskjaer’s comments serve as a warning—without addressing the club’s underlying structural issues, even the most skilled managers may find it difficult to restore United’s former glory. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Amorim to see whether he can navigate these challenges and bring long-term stability and success to Old Trafford.
