A seemingly calm Christmas game period gives Manchester United a serious challenge for the Premier League’s top four and a chance for the manager to take a big step forward.
It’s always nice to see a smile at this time of year, and when Ruben Amorim walks into a room, a smile is usually guaranteed. Whatever you think of his 13 months as Manchester United manager, there is no denying that he has made an attractive addition to the Premier League managerial ranks.
And he had to endure a lot of critical criticism, some of which strayed into the realm of ridicule. His record came under close scrutiny as he was less than stellar, winning just 23 of his 58 games as United manager.
But that didn’t justify some of the ridicule that came his way. Still, he almost always remains pleasant, polite, and eminently cheerful. No growling, no sarcasm, no cynicism. he’s a good guy
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But after the final Premier League match at Old Trafford, Amorim was probably as angry as the regulars at Old Trafford’s media theater when West Ham United scored a late equaliser. He wasn’t throwing things around, but he was quietly boiling.
As an example, he didn’t take kindly to questions about not trusting United’s academy, but Amorim is usually kind enough to answer all questions, no matter how difficult. But he had his reasons. United missed a chance to erase some of the pain inflicted by 10-man Everton recently and also squandered their chance to start December with a win.
Unsurprisingly, and admirably, despite regular attacks from pundits, including some very famous former United players, Amorim has been supported by the Old Trafford hierarchy.
Just a few days ago, Paul Scholes said: “I don’t think the manager understands this club. I just don’t think he’s the right person.”
I disagree. But getting through the Premier League games before the FA Cup suspension is as important for Amorim as any previous period.
There will be no excuse if United are not in a strong position of being in the top four by mid-January. Injuries are no excuse, losing players at the African Cup of Nations is no excuse either.
Amorim confirmed as much in his press conference ahead of Monday night’s game against Bournemouth, saying: “We have players who can handle everything. It’s a long week, we can see a lot and work to prepare for every situation.”
After Bournemouth, United travel to Aston Villa before traveling to Leeds United and Burnley before home games against Newcastle United and Wolves. It’s clear that Villa will be tough, but United will be facing a side who will play six more games this season. That should be important.
This United squad should be one of the freshest in the country over the festive period. They will be missing key players such as Brian Mbeumo, Amad and Nouseir Mazraoui, but Amorim has plenty of cover.
And the Wolves’ strong showing on Monday will give them momentum, even if it’s against comfortably the worst team in the division. It’s not a make-or-break festive period for Amorim, but if he can’t give United a happy Christmas, it’s time to ask some serious questions.
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