If Manchester United continue to achieve something remarkable under Ruben Amorim, fans, pundits, players and perhaps even the manager himself will look back on that humid October afternoon on Merseyside as a turning point. After another poor start to the season, United continued their fine form at the home of the champions, securing their first win at Anfield in 10 years.
There were many milestones. The result secured Amorim’s first back-to-back Premier League titles as United manager, having taken over from Erik ten Hag just under a year ago. The victory moved United firmly into the top half of the table, with the Red Devils closing the gap on Liverpool to just two points.
When the rain started to fall on Liverpool, it felt as if it was washing away all the problems that had accumulated at United during Amorim’s tenure. Sir Jim Ratcliffe made headlines during his international break when he said INEOS would give Amorim time, even suggesting it could be at least three years before a decision on his future is made.
The new sense of freedom seemed to get to Amorim’s players, who pressed and harried all afternoon and caused problems for Liverpool. It wasn’t perfect by any means, but it certainly represented a step in the right direction. But what if, more than anything, this is proof that Amorim’s biggest weakness could become his greatest strength this season?
For the first time since the ill-fated era of David Moyes, United will not be playing any kind of European football this term. While this would be a financial disaster for the club, it would also not be ideal in the transfer market as it would reduce the pool of available players.
However, given United’s tendency to be consistently inconsistent, their lack of action in midweek could end up working in their favor. A tricky trip to European competitions may help boost the bank balance, but it could be seen as a banana peel from a football perspective.
Not to mention, playing midweek and then traveling across the continent can have an impact on a team of mostly young players trying to figure out a new system. What may have seemed like a nuisance at first may actually be of help to the Amorim.
