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  • Manchester United and sporting director Dan Ashworth part ways after five months in charge

    Manchester United and sporting director Dan Ashworth part ways after five months in charge

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    Manchester United and sporting director Dan Ashworth have separated after just five months with the Premier League outfit confirming the 53-year-old’s departure on Sunday. Ashworth, who spent five months on gardening leave from Newcastle United before moving to Old Trafford, only joined the Red Devils back in early July.

    United, who recently appointed Ruben Amorim as Erik ten Hag’s replacement as head coach, described the move as being a “mutual agreement.” The decision is believed to have been made following United’s 3-2 home loss to Nottingham Forest on Saturday which mires the team down in 13th position in the Premier League.

    “Dan Ashworth will be leaving his role as sporting director of Manchester United by mutual agreement,” read the club’s official statement this Sunday. “We would like to thank Dan for his work and support during a transitional period for the club and wish him well for the future.”

    Ashworth was present at Old Trafford and was seen walking to a meeting through the press conference room postgame. The former Brighton and Hove Albion technical director cost United millions of dollars in a settlement with former club Newcastle United which prevented him from even taking office before the summer.

    A significant part of Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s initial restructuring of United’s executive team as well as CEO Omar Berrada and technical director Jason Wilcox, he leaves after just one transfer window. The trio worked together on Amorim’s appointment from Sporting CP as Ten Hag’s successor but Ashworth and the Portuguese tactician did not even work together for a full month in Manchester.

    Matthijs de Ligt, Manuel Ugarte, Leny Yoro, Joshua Zirkzee and Noussair Mazraoui all arrived over the summer for a combined total in excess of $229.3 million. Ten Hag was dismissed for failing to build on the confidence shown towards him to turn things around with those new arrivals and new Leicester City boss Ruud van Nistelrooy temporarily replaced his compatriot before Amorim’s arrival last month.

    United are currently 13th in the EPL standings with just 19 points which is their lowest total after 15 games since 1986. Amorim’s side will travel to Czechia to face Viktoria Plzen in the UEFA Europa League this midweek before the Manchester Derby against bitter rivals City next Sunday with Pep Guardiola’s men also in a bad way.



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  • Ruben Amorim bemoans media spotlight as Manchester United boss claims he has done more interviews since Old Trafford arrival than his FOUR years as Sporting manager

    Ruben Amorim bemoans media spotlight as Manchester United boss claims he has done more interviews since Old Trafford arrival than his FOUR years as Sporting manager

    • Man United were held to a draw at Portman Road in Ruben Amorim’s first match 
    • Marcus Rashford scored after 81 seconds but Omari Hutchinson equalised Will 
    • Ruben Amorim be Man United’s saviour? LISTEN NOW: It’s All Kicking Off! Available wherever you get your podcasts. Episodes every Monday and Thursday

    By SPENCER MORGAN

    Published: | Updated:

    Ruben Amorim jokingly admitted that he is still struggling to come to terms with the media spotlight that comes with being Manchester United manager.

    Amorim’s first game in charge was a largely underwhelming affair with the Red Devils splitting the points with Ipswich at Portman Road.

    Marcus Rashford got his new manager off to a perfect start when he opened the scoring in the second minute but Omari Hutchinson’s brilliant strike levelled the scores with the game going on to finish 1-1.

    Amorim joined Sky’s pundits after the game and discussed the differences between managing united and his former club Sporting Lisbon.

    He said: ‘this week I spoke more to the media than I did in four years at Sporting. I just want to work with my players. Nothing more’.

    ‘My players were thinking too much in the game. You could feel it’.

    Ruben Amorim says he's already done more interviews at Man United than he did at Sporting

    Ruben Amorim says he’s already done more interviews at Man United than he did at Sporting 

    Amorim's first game in charge didn't go to plan as United drew 1-1 with Ipswich

    Amorim’s first game in charge didn’t go to plan as United drew 1-1 with Ipswich 

    Amorim had no complaints with regards to the effort of his new group of players but accepted it will take time to improve. 

    ‘It is hard to expect anything now. It is like not a surprise but you have to see it in the game. That is why I was a little bit anxious, because you cannot understand what will happen in the game. I felt that,’ Amorim reflected.

    ‘What I understood today is that they are trying, they are really trying. They stay in the positions, they receive information and they try to use it in the game. That is very important.

    ‘Even in the difficult moments, I felt they were doing the things we said for them to do.

    ‘I know it is frustrating for the fans, but we are changing so much in this moment with a lot of games. We are going to suffer for a long period and we will try to win games. This will take time, but I know we have to win games.

    ‘We could lose if it was not (for) Onana. We have to understand that and think and be pragmatic that these guys had two days training to change so much.’

    Amorim added: ‘We started very well but then we should have more possession with the ball.

    ‘When we make a new structure and you are so clear on that, they need time to have some fluidity in the game. I felt that but it is two trainings (sessions after the international break) and they did OK.’

    Amorim spoke to Roy Keane and the rest of the Sky Sports team after Sunday's match

    Amorim spoke to Roy Keane and the rest of the Sky Sports team after Sunday’s match 

    ‘The atmosphere, you are lucky guys,’ he said with a smile.

    ‘You have the best, by far, the best league in the world and you see this every weekend, but to tell you the truth, when the game started, it is the same thing since the (Portuguese) third division, I am so focused on the game and I am playing with my players inside the pitch.’

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  • Ruben Amorim’s replacement makes PERFECT start to life at Sporting Lisbon as Portuguese champions SMASH rivals in 6-0 rout… and Man United target Viktor Gyokeres is on target again!

    Ruben Amorim’s replacement makes PERFECT start to life at Sporting Lisbon as Portuguese champions SMASH rivals in 6-0 rout… and Man United target Viktor Gyokeres is on target again!

    • New Sporting Lisbon manager Joao Pereira led his side to a dominant first win
    • Reported Man United target Viktor Gyokeres also contributed to the goalfest 
    • Will Ruben Amorim be Man United’s saviour? LISTEN NOW: It’s All Kicking Off! Available wherever you get your podcasts. Episodes every Monday and Thursday 

    By YASEEN ZAMAN

    Published: | Updated:

    Sporting Lisbon won by a mammoth score in their first game since Ruben Amorim left to join Man United, beating Amarante FC 6-0 in the fourth round of the Taca de Portugal.

    The league leaders, now managed by Joao Pereira, continued their perfect domestic record in Portugal with 14 wins in as many games. 

    United target Viktor Gyokeres played a hand in the goalfest, converting from the penalty spot in the 89th minute to score Sporting’s last goal of the game.

    The Swede has now netted 24 times in 17 games, as the rumours about his future ramp up ahead of the January transfer window.

    Ruben Amorim promised not to raid his former side at the turn of the year, but Gykores’ stellar form may earn him a lucrative summer contract offer from one of Europe’s elites if he continues this level of performance.

    Former Spurs winger Marcus Edwards opened the scoring in the 10th minute, marking the start of Sporting’s new era.

    Ruben Amorim joined his Man United squad on November 11 after leaving Sporting Lisbon

    Ruben Amorim joined his Man United squad on November 11 after leaving Sporting Lisbon

    Viktor Gyokeres continued his stellar form in front of goal, scoring again in tonight's 6-0 win

    Viktor Gyokeres continued his stellar form in front of goal, scoring again in tonight’s 6-0 win

    Former Sporting Lisbon player Joao Pereira succeeded Amorim as their new boss until 2027

    Former Sporting Lisbon player Joao Pereira succeeded Amorim as their new boss until 2027

    After a solo run, he cut onto his right foot, wrong footing his defender, and perfectly curling the ball into the far corner from about 16 yards out.

    Five minutes later, Ricardo Esgaio tapped in from close range to double the lead before Conrad Harder converted a one-on-one to make it 3-0 in the 28th minute.

    Edwards secured his brace on the stroke of half-time, while Trincao and Gyokeres added two more goals in the second half to cap off a dream start for the new manager. 

    Sporting have now scored 59 goals and conceded just nine this season, as Amorim left his former side in excellent shape across all competitions; the Portuguese giants are also undefeated in Europe. 

    They sit second in the Champions League table, their record only being eclipsed by Arne Slot’s all-conquering Liverpool team.

    Pereira’s squad now turn to Tuesday night where they face another massive challenge – hosting Arsenal in the Champions League.

    Manchester UnitedRuben Amorim



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  • Ruben Amorim declares that Man United is ‘my place’ as new Old Trafford boss explains ‘really hard’ decision to leave Sporting Lisbon in interview with Gary Neville

    Ruben Amorim declares that Man United is ‘my place’ as new Old Trafford boss explains ‘really hard’ decision to leave Sporting Lisbon in interview with Gary Neville

    • Ruben Amorim oversaw his first training session as Man United boss on Monday
    • The 39-year-old left Sporting Lisbon to become Erik ten Hag’s successor  
    • Will Ruben Amorim be Man United’s saviour? LISTEN NOW: It’s All Kicking Off! Available wherever you get your podcasts. Episodes every Monday and Thursday

    By SPENCER MORGAN

    Published: | Updated:

    New Manchester United manager Ruben Amorin has explained why he simply couldn’t turn down the opportunity to manage the club.

    Amorim took charge at Old Trafford during the international break after signing a two-and-a-half-year deal, replacing Erik ten Hag and taking the reins from interim boss Ruud van Nistelrooy. 

    The Portuguese has been in Manchester this week as he adapts to his new job, which is as head coach of the Red Devils following his departure from Sporting Lisbon in his homeland.

    Amorin, widely regarded as one of Europe’s top coaches, took charge of his first training session on Monday.

    The 39-year-old received some criticism in Portugal for ‘abandoning’ Sporting during the season and he has spoken about the decision in an interview with United legend Gary Neville on Sky Sports.

    ‘It was really hard but I had to do it, Amorin told Neville. I already had conversations with clubs so was quite normal but what I felt at the time, I felt that this is my place.’

    Ruben Amorin has explained his decision to leave Sporting Lisbon and join Man United

    Ruben Amorin has explained his decision to leave Sporting Lisbon and join Man United

    Amorin sat down with United legend Gary Neville at the end of his first week of training

    Amorin sat down with United legend Gary Neville at the end of his first week of training

    The comment drew a smile from Neville, who spent his entire playing career at United.

    ‘I think it was the right club in the right moment for me, Amorin continued. ‘I felt that this is my place. I think it was the right club in the right moment for me.   

    ‘It was very tough to leave Sporting. Because in the middle of the season, you can say everything, it’s Manchester United. It’s everything, it’s the moment, it’s the club that I want. 

    ‘But you are leaving your guys in middle of the season. It was really hard but I had to do it and I was so happy, of course. 

    ‘You can see it in every interaction that I have but I also felt in the first moment it was a little bit overwhelming. But after five minutes you start thinking about the club, the team, the players, how to play…. so it was quite fun.’

    Amorim has arrived as ‘head coach’, the first in United’s history, and it is part of an overhaul to the structure led by CEO Omar Berrada, director of football Dan Ashworth and technical director Jason Wilcox.

    While he will, over time, have the chance to bring his own players in, internally the feeling at United is that there are players at the club that can produce far more than they have shown so far. 

    Amorin led Sporting to two domestic titles since taking charge in 2020 and left the club in the midst of what was on course to be another successful campaign. 

    Amorim was confirmed as the man to succeed Erik ten Hag at Old Trafford back on November 1

    Amorim was confirmed as the man to succeed Erik ten Hag at Old Trafford back on November 1

    The 39-year-old took charge of his first training session as United manager on Monday

    The 39-year-old took charge of his first training session as United manager on Monday

    Sporting sit six points clear at the top of the Portuguese top flight and second in the 36-team Champions League table.

    Amorin will begin his tenure with a trip to Ipswich, who will have newfound confidence after their shock 2-1 win at Tottenham last time out. 

    United will start the weekend 13th in the Premier League table with just 15 points from their first 11 fixtures this season.

    After taking on Ipswich, the Red Devils will host Bodo/Glimt in the UEFA Europa League four days later.

    United have taken six points from a possible 12 in Europe so far this term, having drawn against Twente, Porto and Fenerbahce, before beating PAOK Salonika.





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  • Wigan Athletic evidence hints Mike Williamson may have turned Carlisle United tide

    Wigan Athletic evidence hints Mike Williamson may have turned Carlisle United tide

    Mike Williamson hasn’t lit the house on fire since coming to Carlisle United, but a recent kind gesture after Charlie Wyke’s horror injury certainly helped to curry favour with the club’s supporters.




    The pre-season expectations for the Blues have been all but thrown out the window. With Paul Simpson at the helm – a manager that has won promotion from League Two more times than he hasn’t – and a seemingly strong summer window, all the noise coming from Brunton Park was about getting back to the English third tier as quickly as possible.

    Even after Simpson’s sacking four games into the season, chairman Tom Piatak still said that promotion was what Carlisle were aiming for. Now, though, being second bottom of the league after 14 games, eight of which Mike Williamson has been in charge of, the attitude towards finishing in the top spots has changed.


    2024/25 League Two table (as of 06/11/24)

    Team

    P

    GD

    Pts

    20

    Accrington Stanley

    13

    -7

    13

    21

    Colchester United

    13

    -4

    12

    22

    Swindon Town

    14

    -5

    12

    23

    Carlisle Unted

    14

    -16

    8

    24

    Morecambe

    14

    -13

    7

    One of the reasons why there was so much hope for the season to come was because of the acquisition of players like Wyke. The striker’s record at the level above was a strong one, and his pre-existing relationship with the club made it feel like the perfect fit.

    Unfortunately, against Cheltenham Town, when he suffered a catastrophic injury, he felt like the signs were pointing towards something else.


    Charlie Wyke’s horror injury

    Shortly after coming on against Michael Flynn’s side, Wyke was challenged from behind by Luke Young. The tackle, while not malicious, fractured his left fibula and ruptured: “all the ligaments and tendons,” as he put it to Wigan Today.


    Nearly three years on from a cardiac arrest while playing for Wigan Athletic that came close to ending his life, Wyke is now facing another major setback. He has had surgery on his ankle, but it is a long road back for someone that has had too much of their career taken from them already.

    Collage Maker-11-Oct-2023-06-37-PM-2616

    He has had a tremendous amount of support in the aftermath of the injury, but the actions of his current boss really rang true with the Carlisle faithful.

    Mike Williamson’s kind action after Charlie Wyke injury

    The forward revealed to Wigan Today that, after the Cheltenham game had finished, United’s head coach came and sat with Wyke for hours.


    “I know I need to stay positive, and I’ve had some good conversations with the gaffer (Mike Williamson)…to be fair, he came with me to the hospital, and he sat with me for eight hours, which was unbelievable of him.”

    Williamson hasn’t hit it off right away at Brunton Park. Whether it’s his more relaxed, understated demeanour, or his tactics, or the fact that he’s following on from a legend of the club, there just hasn’t been that connection between him and many supporters.

    At the start of that Cheltenham game, the Carlisle section of the crowd was so anxious and ready to jump on his and the players’ backs from minute one. They certainly gave the crowd reasons to not be happy, but it wasn’t a pleasant atmosphere at all.

    Some supporters were calling for him to be sacked after the game, but, when Wyke’s quotes came out, even those who didn’t agree with him still keeping his job held their hands up and said ‘You know what, that was a lovely, honourable thing to do.’


    carlisle united brunton park

    Related

    FA and Rangers links should excite Carlisle United as key January transfer window looms for new figure

    Carlisle ended their search for a new sporting director last week when they announced the appointment of Rob Clarkson.

    The next game, against Wigan in the FA Cup – a game that Wyke had been so looking forward to before his injury – the crowd were much more supportive of Williamson and his players.

    Now, was the head coach’s kindness towards his number 10 the main reason for the positive reaction that Carlisle got from the home supporters? Not entirely. The pressure was off them because of the higher calibre of opposition that they were playing against, plus the early sending off of Ethan Robson really got those in attendance riled up.

    Even if the improved mood in Brunton Park against the Latics had nothing at all to do with Williamson’s lengthy support of Wyke in his time of need, what he did showed the quality of the person in charge at Brunton Park, and it seems to have warmed him up to some that weren’t so sure about him.

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  • Incoming Man United boss Ruben Amorim ‘could raid Sporting Lisbon for THREE stars next summer in £175m swoop’ – ‘with chiefs at Portuguese club expecting him to try and poach players’

    Incoming Man United boss Ruben Amorim ‘could raid Sporting Lisbon for THREE stars next summer in £175m swoop’ – ‘with chiefs at Portuguese club expecting him to try and poach players’

    By Luke Power

    Published: | Updated:

    Ruben Amorim could try to bring three players with him from Sporting Lisbon after touching down as Manchester United manager.

    The Portuguese begins work at Old Trafford on November 11 after United reached an agreement to pinch the two-time Portuguese league champion.

    And despite predecessor Erik ten Hag facing much criticism for signing his old Ajax pals, Amorim could look to do the same next summer.

    He has ruled out making any bids for Sporting stars in January but could try and load his trolley with three aces next summer. 

    The Sun reports that United could splash £175million on a striker, centre-back, and central midfielder and that Sporting chiefs expect the raid. 

    Incoming Man United boss Ruben Amorim could try to bring three stars with him from Portugal

    Incoming Man United boss Ruben Amorim could try to bring three stars with him from Portugal

    Deadly striker Viktor Gyokeres - with a £84m release clause - is top of the reported list

    Deadly striker Viktor Gyokeres – with a £84m release clause – is top of the reported list

    Former Arsenal target Goncalo Inacio, a centre-back, also makes the trio of candidates

    Former Arsenal target Goncalo Inacio, a centre-back, also makes the trio of candidates 

    Midfielder and staunch Arsenal fan Morten Hjulmand completes the trio Amorim could pinch

    Midfielder and staunch Arsenal fan Morten Hjulmand completes the trio Amorim could pinch 

    It is no surprise to hear the name of Viktor Gyokeres among the trio. The former Coventry forward hit 43 goals last season and already has 18 this term.

    Gyokeres, 26, has a release clause of £84m and has refused to rule out a move to the Premier League, with Arsenal also named among his suitors.

    ‘Going with Amorim to Man Utd? I don’t know… I’m here,’ he said.

    ‘As you can see, I enjoy it at Sporting. It’s nothing I think about. I’m just sad about him (Amorim) leaving. We wish him all the best.’

    Alongside Gyokeres, United could approach centre-back Goncalo Inacio, 23, and midfielder Morten Hjulmand, 25. 

    United were already targeting Inacio over the summer, according to Portuguese outlets Record and O Jogo. Arsenal were also reported to be keen on him in December 2023 and he has a reported release clause of £51m.

    Inacio has won two Portuguese league titles, two League Cups, and a Super Cup since stepping up to Sporting’s first team in the 2020-21 season. He has also amassed 12 caps for Portugal and featured twice at Euro 2024. 

    While he is principally a central option, Amorim has also deployed him at left-back.

    Sporting are top of the Portuguese league with 10 wins from 10 matches this season

    Sporting are top of the Portuguese league with 10 wins from 10 matches this season

    Amorim has led Sporting to two league titles and broke a 19-year duck for the giants

    Amorim has led Sporting to two league titles and broke a 19-year duck for the giants

    Meanwhile, Hjulmand has been touted as a ‘replacement for Casemiro’ although he has a long way to living up to the Brazilian’s pedigree. 

    He has won one title with Sporting after spending the last couple of seasons with the Portuguese giants. The Dane started his career with Admira Wacker in Austria before joining Lecce in Italy. 

    The Sun claims that he would cost around £40m.

    Hjulmand scored a stunner at Euro 2024 against England.

    However, there is one detail United should be cautious of. The midfielder is a lifelong Arsenal fan and even has a tattoo of the club’s crest on his upper left arm. 

    If Sporting are fearful of Amorim’s departure derailing their season, they may take a crumb of comfort in his assurances that he does not want to poach stars in January. 

    ‘I’m not going to get any players from Sporting in January,’ he said. 

    ‘Gyokeres costs 100 million (euros) and it’s very difficult.’



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  • Erik ten Hag returns to football five days after being sacked by Manchester United as he’s seen taking in a top-flight match in Holland as his old club get set for Chelsea clash

    Erik ten Hag returns to football five days after being sacked by Manchester United as he’s seen taking in a top-flight match in Holland as his old club get set for Chelsea clash

    • Erik ten Hag was sacked by Manchester United earlier this week after a poor start
    • The Red Devils moved quickly to appoint Sporting CP manager Ruben Amorim
    • LISTEN NOW: It’s All Kicking Off! , available wherever you get your podcasts. New episodes every Monday and Thursday 

    By Tum Balogun

    Published: | Updated:

    Former Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has been spotted back in a football stadium for the first time since his sacking earlier this week. 

    The Dutchman’s reign as United boss ended on Monday morning following their controversial 2-1 defeat by West Ham. 

    Ten Hag’s two-and-a-half years at Old Trafford yielded FA Cup and Carabao Cup honours but his side underperformed in the league, especially in his final full season, which ended with club finishing eighth – their lowest-ever position in the Premier League. 

    Ten Hag swiftly jetted back home to the Netherlands following his dismissal and he has now been spotted attending a match in the Dutch Eredivisie between Heracles Almelo and NAC Breda.

    The 54-year-old was on hand to witness the home side claim a 2-0 win thanks to a brace from Brian De Keersmaecker at the Erve Asito stadium. 

    Erik ten Hag (top row, middle) has been spotted back in a football stadium for the first time since he was sacked by Manchester United earlier this week

    Erik ten Hag (top row, middle) has been spotted back in a football stadium for the first time since he was sacked by Manchester United earlier this week

    The Dutchman's two-and-a-half year reign ended after a controversial defeat by West Ham

    The Dutchman’s two-and-a-half year reign ended after a controversial defeat by West Ham

    United co-owners Ineos had opted to keep faith with the Dutchman at the end of last season but were forced into action after their dismal start to the campaign

    United co-owners Ineos had opted to keep faith with the Dutchman at the end of last season but were forced into action after their dismal start to the campaign

    His sighting comes just a day after the former Ajax manager drew a line under his time as United boss by penning a heartfelt message to supporters. In it, he thanked his backroom staff, and insisted he wishes the club nothing but success going forward. 

    ‘Dear fans, Let me start by thanking you.’ He said. ‘Thank you for always being there for the club. Whether it was at a game far away or a tough match at Old Trafford, your support has been unshakeable.

    ‘The atmosphere at Old Trafford has always been electrifying, thanks to you. I felt it many times. Also in away games, it gave the team and me an incredible feeling to hear the United chants taking over the opponents stadiums, whether the game was in England. Europe or during the summer tours. 

    ‘I always enjoyed meeting Manchester United fans throughout the world. Walking the streets and being able to chat with fans in England, Europe, Asia, Australia, the USA – you inspired me and radiated a strong sense of unity. That’s what makes United supporters so special.

    ‘I want to thank you for giving me this feeling and for your support. I also want to thank the staff in every department of the club for their unwavering support in good times and bad.

    ‘We won two trophies – achievements that I will cherish for the rest of my life. Of course, my dream was to bring more trophies to the cabinet. Unfortunately, that dream has come to an end.

    ‘I wish all Manchester United fans nothing but success, trophies and glory. Your support and the warmth I received from everyone at the club helped me feel at home. Thank you for this chapter in my life.’

    The Red Devils have appointing Sporting CP manager Ruben Amorim as Ten Hag's successor

    The Red Devils have appointing Sporting CP manager Ruben Amorim as Ten Hag’s successor

    United claimed an emphatic 5-2 win in their first match under interim Ruud van Nistelrooy

    United claimed an emphatic 5-2 win in their first match under interim Ruud van Nistelrooy

    The United legend is preparing the side for his side's clash with Chelsea in the Premier League

    The United legend is preparing the side for his side’s clash with Chelsea in the Premier League

    United moved quickly to appoint Sporting CP manager Ruben Amorim, with the club confirming his signing on Friday. The 39-year-old penned a two-and-a-half year deal with an option for a further 12 months. He is set to start work at Old Trafford later this month once a negotiated notice period has ben served with his current club. 

    In the meantime, United are being led by Ten Hag’s former assistant and Red Devils legend Ruud van Nistelrooy. The Dutchman claimed an emphatic 5-2 win in his first game of temporary charge against Leicester. 

    United welcome Chelsea to Old Trafford in the Premier League on Sunday, looking to recover from their worst-ever start that sees them languishing in 13th place.  

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  • Ruben Amorim will have to ditch his three at the back philsophy at Man United, writes DANNY MURPHY – the squad he is inheriting is too slow!

    Ruben Amorim will have to ditch his three at the back philsophy at Man United, writes DANNY MURPHY – the squad he is inheriting is too slow!

    • Ruben Amorim will need to adapt his style to suit his Manchester United players
    • The 39-year-old is inheriting squad ill-suited to his preferred football philosophy
    • LISTEN NOW: It’s All Kicking Off!, available wherever you get your podcasts. New episodes every Monday and Thursday

    By Danny Murphy

    Published: | Updated:

    I’m sure Ruben Amorim is intelligent enough to realise he can’t just copy and paste what he did at Sporting Lisbon in order to create immediate success at Manchester United.

    To ask a squad which lacks athleticism and confidence to replicate his preferred 3-4-3 with high energy and flying wing backs carries big risks in the Premier League.

    The best managers adapt to personnel. Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City tweaked things when Erling Haaland arrived. Jurgen Klopp opted for three midfield runners only after Philippe Coutinho had left.

    Initially, if Amorim demands this set of United players be progressive with the press and play a higher line, it would invite trouble. The central defenders don’t have the pace to compensate for a lack of numbers in midfield, particularly when Leny Yoro is injured.

    In Portugal, Sporting have the best players so it makes sense to be braver with philosophy and formation. United are a different case. Against better teams, they lack legs at this level.

    Ruben Amorim needs to be flexible based on the squad he is inheriting at Manchester United

    Ruben Amorim needs to be flexible based on the squad he is inheriting at Manchester United

    The 39-year-old has found great success playing high-tempo football with a 3-4-3 in Portugal

    The 39-year-old has found great success playing high-tempo football with a 3-4-3 in Portugal

    But United do not currently have the players to make that work against the best sides

    But United do not currently have the players to make that work against the best sides

    It’ll be interesting to see if Amorim is playing three at the back in a year’s time. Few top teams do. Chelsea were the last side to win the title that way, under Antonio Conte in 2017.

    If United lose control in midfield against top teams like Liverpool or City by playing two there, they will get dominated, so a lot of onus is on the wing backs to help without possession.

    With Luke Shaw out, they don’t have a left-footer on that side, which makes them unbalanced.

    I have read about interest in Bayern Munich’s Alphonso Davies but he’s world class and would surely expect Champions League football.

    Some managers begin playing three centre halves but move on from it. There is a reason Mikel Arteta doesn’t play that way despite winning the FA Cup with wing backs. Crystal Palace were great in a 3-4-3 last season but opponents have started to figure out Oliver Glasner’s side.

    Let’s assume Amorim starts with some variation on the 3-4-3 because it’s what he knows. He’ll have to find the right midfield pair, as athletic as he can find in United’s current ranks.

    Captain Bruno Fernandes will need to be accommodated into the front three to make room for an athletic midfield pairing

    Captain Bruno Fernandes will need to be accommodated into the front three to make room for an athletic midfield pairing

    Given that he has worked successfully with Manuel Ugarte before, the Uruguayan would probably take one of the spots but I don’t think it would suit Bruno Fernandes to be alongside him. His creative strengths would be better served in the front three.

    Maybe Kobbie Mainoo would be the best fit of those available. Like Michael Carrick, he reads the game so well he doesn’t always need to rattle into people to break up play.

    Manchester UnitedRuben Amorim



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  • BBC Sport comments from ‘neutrals’ – Interesting on Newcastle United after win v Arsenal

    BBC Sport comments from ‘neutrals’ – Interesting on Newcastle United after win v Arsenal

    Intriguing to read through these BBC Sport comments, following on from Newcastle United’s win against Arsenal.

    The comments from neutrals especially telling…

    A lot of it different to what Newcastle United fans had come to expect from the BBC Sport ‘neutrals’.

    The BBC Sport comments from neutrals in the past had been overwhelmingly a catalogue of abuse aimed at NUFC supporters.

    Particularly stuff about the Newcastle United owners and the media inspired pile-ons that NUFC fans have become used to, when blamed for who now owns their club.

    On this occasion though, the politics entirely absent, just concentrating on matters on the pitch.

    The BBC Sport readers comments from neutrals, Arsenal fans and the odd Newcastle supporter also contributing:

    ‘Thank you Newcastle from the rest of the UK for beating insufferable FC.’

    ‘Arteta is finished. Insulting to Sterling to not even bring him on.’

    ‘Clearly the goal was offside, the ball was out, there were 12 players on the pitch eerrrrr… the sun was in the keepers eyes.’

    ‘The clocks went back.’

    ‘Same old Arsenal always cheating.’

    ‘There are no excuses, Newcastle thoroughly deserved the win today end of.

    Enjoy your win and go away.’

    ‘Well done Newcastle. Fully deserved.

    Can’t win them all, on to the next. COYG.’

    ‘My calendar must be out, the gooners usually don’t bottle it until around March.’

    ‘Players like havertz rice white zinchenko merino partey raya trossard etc are all a tier below what’s required. Their fan base is always deluded and thinking they are better than they are. They should just accept reality and know their place.’

    ‘Arteta so busy concentrating on the dark arts, cheating, time wasting and feigning injury, he’s forgotten the football !!!’

    ‘All the narrative as usual will be “Arsenal weren’t at the races” “Arsenal didn’t turn up” etc. etc. when the reality is Newcastle snuffed them out controlled the game and converted an excellent chance! ‘

    ‘What a pair of full backs Newcastle have got there !! 21 and 20 years old and kept Arsenal’s “world class” wingers in their pockets all day long.’

    ‘Ex-Chelsea Lads Both.’

    ‘Most players in this league have been at Chelsea! lol.’

    ‘Newcastles game plan worked a treat today.

    Arsenal rarely looked like scoring due to some great defensive work by the Newcastle team.

    Eddie Howe got it spot on today and made Arsenal look quite ordinary.’

    Eddie Howe Newcastle Mikel Arteta Arsenal

    ‘Yeah credit Newcastle, they were very good and limited us to nothing.

    We didn’t deserve to come away with anything after that poor performance and seriously lacking any ideas with creativity.

    Well done Newcastle, a well deserved win.’

    ‘While most of the reports here will be how badly Arsenal played, really this was more a great performance from Newcastle. Solid in defence, won most of their individual duels, countered quick. Bruno ran the midfield, Hall & Livramento were tremendous. Tactically spot on from Howe.’

    ‘Looks like Newcastle came to work hard for a win, while Arsenal thought they just had to turn up, cruise along and the points would be theirs. Sorry Arsenal football doesn’t work like that, nor are points that easy to obtain in this league.’

    ‘Howe has got this team back on track and hopefully they can now string a good run together.

    As for Arsenal, unless there are major collapses by the other two teams, can’t see Arsenal winning it this season. Is Arteta only ever destined to be a bridesmaid, and never the bride, when it comes to league titles?’

    ‘Nice win Magpies. Been a good few days for this northern team.

    Arsenal, looks like the title challenge is finally over for this season.’

    ‘Newcastle played great and richly deserved their win today. They should be in a great fight for a CL place going forward.’

    ‘I don’t support Newcastle but I’m glad you won today, from the rest of the premier league, we thank you for your service!’

    ‘Amazing that: 97 mins played and not one sign of a parked bus, no sign of any cramp whatsoever, and Raya not cuddling the ball on the floor every 2 mins for 30 seconds. Strange.’

    ‘Why is it on the BBC that whoever Newcastle beat, the headline is always about the opposition losing. Come on BBC, cut the anti north east bias, Newcastle won!!’

    ‘Worrying times for we Gooners – very little spark these last few weeks without Odegaard. Saka can’t do it all on his own. That said, credit to the Toon, they were excellent, easily the better team today.’

    ‘Keown absolutely seething post match.. Hasnt given much credit to Newcastle at all, just Aresenal didn’t turn up… Time for this dinosaur to hang up his mic !!’

    ‘Easy for Newcastle. Arsenal 1 shot on target all game.

    Resolved and agreed that Arsenal are pants.’

    ‘This was excellent from Newcastle United.

    Eddie Howe a top manager.’

    Newcastle 1 Arsenal 0 – Saturday 2 November 12.30pm

    (Stats via BBC Sport)

    Goals:

    Newcastle United:

    Isak 12

    Arsenal:

    Possession was Newcastle 36% Arsenal 64%

    Total shots were Newcastle 9 Arsenal 10

    Shots on target were Newcastle 4 Arsenal 1

    Corners were Newcastle 4 Arsenal 6

    Touches in the box Newcastle 17 Arsenal 32

    Newcastle United team v Arsenal:

    Pope; Livramento, Schar, Burn, Hall; Longstaff, Bruno (Kelly 90+5), Willock (Tonali 65); Gordon (Barnes 85), Isak, Joelinton

    Subs:

    Dubravka, Miley, Almiron, Alex Murphy, Krafth, Osula

    (What a stunning Alexander Isak stat! What an even better Alexander Isak winner!! Read and watch HERE)

    (Instant Newcastle fan/writer reaction to Newcastle 1 Arsenal 0 – Read HERE)

    (United are back! Newcastle 1 Arsenal 0 – Read HERE)

    Newcastle United upcoming matches confirmed to end of January 2025:

    Sunday 10 November – Forest v Newcastle (2pm) Sky Sports

    Monday 25 November – Newcastle v West Ham (8pm) Sky Sports

    Saturday 30 November – Crystal Palace v Newcastle

    Wednesday 4 December – Newcastle v Liverpool (7.30pm) Amazon

    Saturday 7 December – Brentford v Newcastle (3pm)

    Saturday 14 December – Newcastle v Leicester (3pm)

    W/C Monday 16 December – Newcastle v Brentford – Carabao Cup Quarter-Final

    Saturday 21 December – Ipswich v Newcastle (3pm)

    Thursday 26 December – Newcastle v Villa (3pm) Amazon

    Monday 30 December – Man U v Newcastle (8pm) Sky Sports

    Saturday 4 January – Tottenham v Newcastle (12.30pm) TNT Sports

    Wednesday 15 January – Newcastle v Wolves (7.30pm) TNT Sports

    Saturday 18 January – Newcastle v Bournemouth (12.30pm) TNT Sports

    Saturday 25 January – Southampton v Newcastle (3pm)


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  • Ruben Amorim verdict delivered by former Man United star Nani – after Sporting Lisbon boss is confirmed as Red Devils’ new head coach

    Ruben Amorim verdict delivered by former Man United star Nani – after Sporting Lisbon boss is confirmed as Red Devils’ new head coach

    Nani has delivered his assessment of Ruben Amorim as the Sporting Lisbon boss prepares to follow his path from the Portuguese giants to Manchester United.

    Amorim was officially announced as Man United’s new head coach on Friday, with the 39-year-old old taking up the position during the international break on November 11.

    The confirmation came after a week of negotiations between the two clubs, as Man United acted quickly after sacking manager Erik ten Hag.

    As part of the agreement Amorim would remain in charge of three final Sporting matches, including crucial clashes with Man City in the Champions League and Braga in the Portuguese top flight.

    The first match came on Friday night with Sporting earning a dominant 5-1 win over Estrela Amadora, whose team featured former Man United star Nani.

    Ex-Man United winger Nani expressed hope Ruben Amorim, right, will be a success at the club

    Ex-Man United winger Nani expressed hope Ruben Amorim, right, will be a success at the club 

    Amorim's move was confirmed on Friday, but took charge of Sporting's win over Estrela Amadora

    Amorim’s move was confirmed on Friday, but took charge of Sporting’s win over Estrela Amadora

    Nani featured in the second half for Estrela Amadora, during their defeat on Friday night

    Nani featured in the second half for Estrela Amadora, during their defeat on Friday night

    Nani, now 37, has offered his backing for Amorim to achieve success at Man United after praising his ‘excellent job’ at Sporting.

    ‘All I can say is good luck,’ Nani told Sport TV.

    ‘He has done an excellent job at Sporting, and I hope he can do the same at United, which is a great club, one of the best clubs in the world.

    ‘I think he is in a great place; he will have the chance with excellent players to deliver a strong response, as he has all the conditions to do so.’

    Nani received an ovation from the Sporting fans when he came on as a second half substitute for Estrela, his hometown club.

    The winger had come through Sporting’s academy and played 136 times for the first team, scoring 31 goals, before moving to Man United for a reported £21m fee in 2007.

    Nani joined United in 2007 from Sporting Lisbon and went on to spend eight years at Old Trafford. During this time he won four Premier League titles, two League Cups, the Champions League and the Club World Cup.

    After leaving United in 2015, he had spells at Fenerbahce, Valencia and Lazio before moving to the US to play for Orlando City.

    A return to Italy followed as he joined Venezia prior to transfers to Melbourne Victory and Adana Demirspor.

    Nani embraced Amorim, who will follow his path from Sporting Lisbon to Manchester United

    Nani embraced Amorim, who will follow his path from Sporting Lisbon to Manchester United

    Nani won four Premier League titles at Man United and lifted the Champions League

    Nani won four Premier League titles at Man United and lifted the Champions League

    Amorim will officially take over as Man United's new head coach on November 11

    Amorim will officially take over as Man United’s new head coach on November 11 

    Amorim will make the same move as Nani from Sporting to Man United and the pair were seen in a warm embrace on the touchline following Friday’s match.

    Former Man United defender Rio Ferdinand revealed earlier this week that Nani had also given him more insight on Amorim. 

    ‘I spoke to Nani actually the other day and he said “Rio, whatever you want to talk about, tactics or whatever, the players play for him, they love him and they respect him”,’ Ferdinand said in a video posted on X.

    ‘One of the issues I think with Erik ten Hag and what he [Nani] said about Amorim is he’s very straight, very straight and very direct.

    ‘From what I’m hearing, I’m talking to people that have played for [him] but also been around [him] as a human, I think the character and the charisma compared to Erik ten Hag will be the big differentiator, will be the big difference.’

    Amorim, who has signed a two-and-a-half year deal at Man United, admitted post match that over the course of three days he was left to make what he feels is the biggest decision of his career to date.

    Amorim gave further insight into his move to Man United at his post-match press conference

    Amorim gave further insight into his move to Man United at his post-match press conference

    ‘I was told it was now or never. I had three days to make my mind up,’ he said.

    ‘A decision that would radically change my life. I’ve had other opportunities. The president and [Hugo] Viana can confirm this. This is not the first or second time I have been requested.

    ‘After Sporting, I wanted Manchester. There’s a time I have to take a step forward. It was hard. I had to do this.

    ‘I don’t want to victimise myself. The only one in no-man’s land was me. I didn’t say it before because it had to be agreed between the clubs.’ 

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