The Red Devils faced a struggling West Ham team, currently in the relegation zone, and went ahead in the second half through a composed finish by defender Diogo Dalot. ..Continue Reading
However, a late equaliser from Soungoutou Magassa ensured the match ended level, prompting boos from the home crowd at full-time.
The overall display was lacklustre, and once again, manager Ruben Amorim’s decisions drew criticism—but it was his post-match comments that intensified calls for his dismissal as Man Utd boss.
Amorim made a bold call by giving Ayden Heaven his first start of the campaign in the absence of Harry Maguire and Matthijs De Ligt, but the young defender endured a tough outing and was substituted at the break for Leny Yoro after picking up an early booking.
With United leading 1-0, Amorim opted to introduce Mason Mount and Manuel Ugarte in place of Matheus Cunha and Joshua Zirkzee, a move that signalled a conservative approach and allowed the visitors to grow into the game.
After West Ham’s late leveller, Amorim made another switch, bringing on Lisandro Martinez for Luke Shaw.
Despite chasing a winner, the manager left attacking talents Kobbie Mainoo and promising youngster Shea Lacey unused on the bench, and his explanation after the match raised eyebrows.
“No. We are losing because of the second balls. We have more men to put in the offense? Who? Who would be more offense?”
When Mainoo’s name was mentioned as a possible option, Amorim reportedly responded with laughter—an alarming reaction.
He further claimed that a set-piece, rather than the team’s overall performance, was the decisive factor in the result.
“We can’t let a team that’s much bigger than us get a corner in these conditions. It’s the details that make the difference, and today, a corner made the difference.”
This situation isn’t about Kobbie Mainoo, the youth system, or individual players. It reflects a manager who appears disconnected from the identity of the club and the expectations that come with leading it.
The primary duty of a Manchester United manager is to secure victories. When that’s not possible, there must at least be a clear desire to win and entertain supporters. Amorim is falling short on all fronts.
The Portuguese tactician has managed just 23 wins in 57 matches over more than a year, with only 13 of those in the Premier League.
That record is far from acceptable. Moreover, his in-game decisions continue to raise serious concerns, and his justifications for them are equally troubling.
If he cannot recognise that his tactical choices in this match—against one of the league’s poorest-performing sides—harmed United’s chances, then it’s understandable why fans are demanding change.
Amorim appears out of his depth at Man Utd. It may be time for INEOS to take decisive action, end this misstep, and appoint someone capable of delivering the fundamentals.
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