Head coach puts future in doubt after revealing tensions behind the scenes
Ruben Amorim has hinted at a falling out between him and members of Manchester United’s footballing hierarchy, after the Portuguese made an outburst on Sunday telling his bosses to “do their job”.
“I came here to be the manager of Manchester United, not to be the coach of Manchester United,” Amorim said. “That is clear.
“I know my name is not [Thomas] Tuchel, [Jose] Mourinho or [Antonio] Conte but I’m the manager.
“It’s going to be like this for 18 months or until the board decide to change. I’m not going to quit, I will do my job until another guy is coming here to replace me.”
United drew 1-1 against Leeds at Elland Road on Sunday, continuing a poor run that has seen them win only once in five games. Amorim started the game with nine defenders, leaving only Benjamin Sesko and Matheus Cunha as the attacking minded players due to injuries to Bruno Fernandes and Mason Mount and the absence of Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo at the Africa Cup of Nations.
The winter transfer window is open but Amorim previously said there have been “no coversations” regarding mid-season reinforcements, and the evidence may suggest the United boss is getting frustrated.
“Every department, the scouting department, the sporting director, needs to do their job,” Amorim said. “I will do mine for 18 months and then we move on.”
United’s head coach – his official title – has faced criticism due to his a 3-4-3 formation, with many supporters and pundits calling for him to change it. He has also been criticised for selection issues, notably the few chances given to youngster Kobbie Mainoo, although the academy graduate is currently injured.
Amorim has previously addressed the criticism from pundits and ex-players like Gary Neville and Paul Scholes, saying it was part of the pressure of being a top club and even encouraging his players to withstand the scrutiny.
On Sunday he said again: “If people cannot handle the Gary Nevilles and the criticisms of everything, we need to change the club.”
