What seemed like a turning point for Rúben Amorim’s Manchester United after their defiant FA Cup victory over Arsenal in January has now proved to be a false dawn.
Despite their spirited performance at the Emirates, playing with 10 men for over an hour and securing a penalty shootout win, United have failed to build on that momentum. They currently sit 14th in the Premier League, with a 14-point gap from the top four and nine points off the top half.
Their FA Cup hopes were dashed by Fulham, and their Europa League chances hang in the balance after a shaky 1-1 draw against Real Sociedad in the first leg of their last-16 tie.
Injuries and a Crisis of Confidence
A key factor in United’s struggles has been injuries, particularly to Lisandro Martínez and Amad Diallo. Amad, who had contributed to 12 of United’s 28 league goals, was sidelined just as the club loaned out Antony and Marcus Rashford. Martínez’s absence has left a glaring hole in defense, as well as in leadership and mentality.
Meanwhile, Rasmus Højlund’s 19-game goal drought and Alejandro Garnacho’s struggles have further hurt the team. Low confidence and tension within the squad were evident when Diogo Dalot failed to pass to Højlund in a clear goalscoring opportunity against Real Sociedad.
Amorim’s Leadership Under Scrutiny
Amorim’s harsh motivational tactics—such as calling his players the worst team in United’s history—have done little to boost morale. His unconventional team selections and public criticism of Rashford and Antony have created a sense of division rather than unity.
Adding to the turmoil, INEOS’ cost-cutting measures have created a toxic atmosphere at the club. Reports suggest employees are fearing for their jobs, and fans are increasingly turning against the ownership.
A Tough Test Against Ruthless Arsenal
Heading into Sunday’s rematch against Arsenal, United look like a team in survival mode rather than one ready to compete. Meanwhile, Arsenal are in top form, recently thrashing Man City 5-1 and obliterating PSV Eindhoven 7-1 in the Champions League.
While Amorim has hailed Mikel Arteta’s rebuild as an inspiration, he also admitted that he might not get the same time or patience at Old Trafford.
If things don’t improve quickly, his own future at United could soon be in question.
