MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 04: Ruben Amorim, Manager of Manchester United, reacts during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Sunderland at Old Trafford on October 04, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)
Manchester United is entering 2026 with renewed hope for a European push, as manager Ruben Amorim looks to build on the progress made since last season’s disappointing 15th-place finish in the Premier League. The 40-year-old coach joined Old Trafford in November 2024, bringing a reputation as one of Europe’s most promising young coaches after securing two Portuguese titles during his three seasons at Sporting CP. Following a challenging start, the Red Devils appear to be on a positive trajectory under Amorim’s guidance.
Amorim’s arrival was seen as a pivotal moment for Manchester United, with hopes that his innovative coaching style would help transform the club back into title contenders. As the team prepares for the second half of the season, they are actively competing for a position in European competitions, signifying a shift in momentum for the club.
Endorsement from Former Arsenal Star
The impact of Amorim’s coaching has not gone unnoticed, particularly by players who have had the opportunity to work with him. Former Arsenal defender Hector Bellerin, who spent the latter half of the 2022/23 season at Sporting, praised Amorim during a recent interview with FourFourTwo. Bellerin, who has played under notable managers such as Arsène Wenger and Mikel Arteta, expressed that few coaches have made as significant an impression as Amorim.
Bellerin’s time at Sporting was challenging, as he adjusted to a new league after a difficult stint at Barcelona. Despite the brief duration of their collaboration, he credits Amorim with providing clarity and direction that positively influenced his career.
“Football-wise, my time in Portugal was tough, but I learned key lessons,” Bellerin remarked. “I found a great coach in Amorim, who for me is part of the new school of coaches. He was very good at the simple side of the game and I loved his ideas as a coach. It was really good to learn from him.”
Bellerin highlighted that even within a short timeframe, he absorbed numerous concepts from Amorim that he continues to apply in his game. His experience in Portugal has been instrumental in regaining his form after a challenging period in Spain, reinforcing the effectiveness of Amorim’s coaching approach.
As Manchester United continues to navigate through the Premier League, the performance of Amorim and his ability to motivate and develop players will be closely monitored. The club’s management remains optimistic that under his leadership, they can reclaim their status among Europe’s elite. With the backing of both fans and former players, Amorim’s innovative methods may well be the key to a successful season ahead.
