The pressure on Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has reached a new peak following his side’s comprehensive 3-0 defeat to arch-rivals Manchester City in the Premier League derby on Sunday. The loss, which saw City’s Phil Foden and Erling Haaland tear apart United’s defense, has prompted former Scotland international Steve Nicol to call for the manager’s immediate departure.
Speaking on ESPN FC’s YouTube channel, Nicol was highly critical of Amorim’s unwavering tactical approach, arguing that his refusal to adapt is hurting the team. “Well, they need to change him then. There is no point waiting,†Nicol stated. “He is basically saying, ‘next time we step on the field, this is what we’re dishing out again because I’m not changing anything.'â€
The derby defeat marks a continuation of a worrying trend for Amorim, who was appointed to replace Erik ten Hag last year. United has now recorded just one win in their first four games of the season, leaving them in 14th place in the Premier League table. Since Amorim took charge, United has amassed the fewest points of any ever-present Premier League team. His record of 31 points from 31 games has been described as relegation form by multiple analysts.
Nicol also criticized the team’s lack of initiative and apparent “self-preservation†on the field, suggesting a lack of team cohesion. The comments echo a growing sentiment among fans and pundits that Amorim’s 3-4-3 system is not working at Old Trafford.
Amorim himself has accepted the criticism, telling reporters after the match that he understands the frustration. He defended his philosophy but acknowledged that his future is out of his hands. “The record says everything, I understand,†Amorim said. “I am not going to change. If not, you have to change the man.â€
The pressure on Amorim is now immense, with some reports suggesting that another defeat against Chelsea next weekend could lead to serious questions about his future at the club.
