Ruben Amorim’s prospects at Manchester United are currently a hot topic. With 17 victories out of 47 matches, the Portuguese head coach has achieved a win ratio of only 36.17% since he assumed his role in November of the previous year.
He has secured just one victory in five matches across all competitions this season, which includes a 3-0 loss to Manchester City, despite having invested significantly in the squad during the summer.
Interestingly, the Red Devils have shown considerably less patience with his predecessors.
David Moyes departed from Old Trafford after less than a year, holding a win ratio of 52.94%. When Louis van Gaal was dismissed, he had recorded 54 wins in 103 matches, resulting in a win percentage of 52.43%.
Jose Mourinho left after achieving a win rate of 58.33%, while Ole Gunnar Solskjaer had a win ratio of 54.17% at the time of his dismissal. Amorim’s immediate predecessor, Erik ten Hag, exited his role with 70 wins in 128 matches, equating to a win ratio of 54.69%.
Consequently, there is a chance that Amorim may not endure the turmoil at the Theatre of Dreams.
Options to replace Amorim
There is no dearth of options for INEOS, should they decide to part ways with Amorim in the coming weeks. Unai Emery has been mentioned in recent reports, while Andoni Iraola, and Oliver Glasner have been linked as well. Zinedine Zidane’s name is inevitably going to be in the mix as soon as the opportunity arises.
However, none of those appointments are without risks, especially since highly rated young managers have previously failed to live up to expectations at Old Trafford.
Perhaps United should consider giving one of their former managers a second chance instead.
An era of optimism
When United appointed Solskjaer as their interim manager in December 2018, the club was experiencing significant turmoil. Mourinho’s third-season syndrome had taken hold, resulting in a squad that was lacking in morale.
The Red Devils were in desperate need of a miracle, and the Baby-faced Assassin arrived to provide it.
Longtime United fans were engulfed by a wave of nostalgia upon seeing his endearing smile. As a player, Solskjaer exhibited clinical precision, composure, and intelligence—qualities that he immediately infused into the squad upon his arrival.
The Norwegian secured a resounding 5-1 victory in his first match against Cardiff City, marking the first occasion the team had netted five goals in a game since Sir Alex’s departure.
Ole initiated a remarkable run that led to him being awarded the full-time position before the season concluded. Although the Norwegian managed to finish in the top three during both of his full seasons at the helm, he was unable to secure any trophies and ultimately parted ways with the club in November 2021.
Solskjaer is available to take over
Solskjaer, interestingly, took a lengthy sabbatical following his departure from Old Trafford, before taking charge of Besiktas in January this year.
Unfortunately, he was relieved of his duties last month, but his record at Istanbul – 15 wins from 29 games with a 51.72% win ratio – is still superior to Amorim’s at Old Trafford.
What United need right now is someone to come in and steady the ship, even if on a short-term basis. Ole already has a tremendous record of doing just that.
Familiarity with the United Way
Solskjaer is well versed in the “United way” and relied heavily on youth during his previous stint. The Norwegian also oversaw some of the best football at Old Trafford since Sir Alex’s retirement.
The likes of Kobbie Mainoo could benefit immensely from Ole’s arrival, while veterans like Bruno Fernandes will also thrive once again under his man-management.
After an overload of tactical acumen, perhaps it is “vibes” that will come to United’s rescue now.
A squad ready made for the fluid 4-3-3
Throughout his time in charge, Solskjaer demonstrated remarkable adaptability in his formations and strategies, a characteristic that is not applicable to Amorim. Many contend that the 3-4-3 formation limits the effectiveness of players like Bruno and Mainoo, placing excessive reliance on Patrick Dorgu.
Ole’s 4-3-3 formation could provide a refreshing alternative, featuring a well-prepared attacking trio that would benefit from a midfield combination of Bruno, Mainoo, and Casemiro. A defensive line consisting of Noussair Mazraoui, Leny Yoro, Matthijs de Ligt, and Dorgu would also be quite robust.
With Manuel Ugarte, Amad Diallo, Diogo Dalot, and Harry Maguire available, the Norwegian would possess sufficient quality on the substitutes’ bench. Notably, from the squad that Ole managed during his tenure at Old Trafford, only Maguire and Bruno continue to be part of the team.
A move not devoid of risks
Sceptical supporters, however, will argue that Ole’s tenure at Old Trafford has come to an end. They will cite his concerning period with Cardiff City, where he achieved only a 30% win rate. The sudden conclusion of his time at Besiktas will also raise eyebrows.
Nevertheless, it is important to acknowledge that the Norwegian had to navigate through turmoil during his leadership at United. The recruitment process failed him, there was a lack of stability behind the scenes, and the team was plagued by injuries.
Despite these challenges, Ole managed to secure consecutive top four finishes for the first time since Sir Alex Ferguson’s exit. He also led the team to the Europa League final, where, with a bit of luck and a fit Maguire, the outcome could have been quite different.
With INEOS bringing stability to the club and a recruitment framework now established, Ole is likely to perform better. Having already faced various highs and lows during his previous term, the Norwegian is now better prepared to handle the challenges of managing United.
Mountains to be climbed
In February 2019, United succumbed to a 2-0 defeat at home against Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in the Champions League Round of 16 first leg. Ole faced a daunting task of beating the Parisians at their home ground to progress in the tournament.
To make matters worse, at least 10 players would be missing due to injuries and suspension for the second leg. However, at the end of the defeat at Old Trafford, the Norwegian gave a defiant response when asked about the enormous task at hand.
“Mountains are there to be climbed,” said Solskjaer.
Two weeks later, Ole had gifted fans with ‘that night in Paris’, as the Red Devils powered to a 3-1 win in the enemy’s backyard.
It cannot be just a coincidence that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is available for his next assignment at the moment. There are mountains to be climbed at The Theatre of Dreams as well right now.
The prodigal son’s story with United is far from over.
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