Manchester United’s torrid season under Ruben Amorim continued with a dismal 3-1 defeat at home to Brighton on Sunday, leaving the club languishing in 13th place in the Premier League.
The loss marked yet another chapter in what has become a harrowing start to Amorim’s tenure, with the Portuguese manager acknowledging the dismal form of his side.
United’s only shot on target in the entire match came from a Bruno Fernandes penalty, with Brighton’s dominance leaving little doubt over the result.
The Seagulls, who had been struggling with poor form prior to this game, showed little mercy as they comfortably outclassed their hosts at Old Trafford.
“I don’t really get it at the moment,” said Fernandes, visibly frustrated. “We talk all the time about how difficult it is to play at Old Trafford. How can it be that Manchester United has difficulties to play at their home ground, with the atmosphere that we have, with the great stadium and everything?”
Fernandes’ sentiments echoed the broader concerns around the team’s performance, which has fallen short of expectations.
Brighton took the lead through a series of clinical finishes, and despite United’s efforts to respond, they were largely ineffectual.
United’s captain didn’t mince words when reflecting on the state of his side, stating bluntly, “It can’t be. I understand the perspective from the outside. But we can’t be comfortable in thinking that this is OK. Because it’s not.”
Amorim, who has yet to make an impact since taking over, remained steadfast in his approach, even as critics continue to question his tactics. The 3-4-3 formation employed by the manager has sparked considerable debate.
Despite the mounting pressure and criticism, Amorim is resolute in his belief that his style of play will eventually bring success, even if it means enduring difficult moments along the way. “We are being the worst team maybe in the history of Manchester United,” he admitted, “but I know that we need to survive this moment. I’m not going to change, no matter what. I know we can succeed.”
He also acknowledged that his players and the fans must “suffer” through this period, but he remained confident that his long-term vision would eventually yield positive results. “I have one way of doing things, I know it’s going to bring results. But we have to suffer these moments,” Amorim said, with an air of unwavering determination.
Despite the growing pressure on the manager, Fernandes offered a sobering message to the squad, saying, “No one in that dressing room is comfortable with what is happening. If someone is, they can’t be here.”
As the season progresses, the sense of urgency grows. United’s fans, once accustomed to title challenges and success, are now faced with the sobering reality of a club in crisis. With Amorim’s future seemingly tied to his ability to turn things around, Manchester United’s next few weeks could be key to determining the course of their season.