By Olaitan Ibrahim
Manchester United’s nightmare start to the season has heaped pressure on Ruben Amorim, but the club’s hierarchy are standing firmly behind him, at least for now.
United were humiliated 3-0 by rivals Manchester City at Old Trafford, a result that dropped them in 14th place after just four games. Despite creating chances, Amorim’s men once again lacked the killer edge to trouble Pep Guardiola’s side.
The Portuguese coach has now managed just 31 points from 31 Premier League games, losing 16 along the way. Even so, according to Manchester Evening News, the United board still back him.
Reports had it that a source close to Amorim admitted it was “incredible” that he is not already in danger, given his dismal record.
Gary Neville has warned the 39-year-old could be “in trouble” if United remain in the bottom half going into October.
Opta’s supercomputer has only deepened the gloom, rating United more likely to be relegated (10.95%) than to qualify for the Champions League (4.18%).
Amorim, however, is standing firm on his philosophy. He has refused to ditch his 3-4-3 system, insisting:
“I won’t change my philosophy. If they want it changed, you change the man. I understand the questions, I accept the record is not what Manchester United should have. But there are things you have no idea about in the last months.”
Next up for United is a trip to Stamford Bridge to face Chelsea, defeat there could turn the current crisis into a full-blown disaster.