Manchester United’s disastrous season took another heavy blow on Monday night, as they suffered a 2-0 defeat to Newcastle, marking their ninth loss in the Premier League.
This latest setback adds to the mounting pressure on manager Ruben Amorim, who has yet to find a way to reverse the club’s fortunes.
The loss leaves United clinging to just a seven-point cushion above the relegation zone, a far cry from the hopes of European competition that initially surrounded Amorim’s appointment.
Amorim’s Rough Start
Since taking over, Amorim has faced a series of challenges.
His 3-4-3 formation has not been well received by the squad, and the results have been nothing short of disastrous.
This loss to Newcastle is the latest chapter in what is now the worst start for any United manager in over a century.
Statistically, United have only gotten worse under Amorim’s stewardship, with key metrics like goals scored, shots on target, and errors leading to goals all placing the team among the worst in the league.
A Year of Records United Would Rather Forget
The statistics surrounding United’s performance this year are staggering.
The club’s 51 points in 2024 mark their lowest annual total since 1989.
Additionally, the loss to Newcastle meant United had suffered three consecutive home defeats for the first time since 1979.
December has been particularly brutal, with United suffering six defeats, the most they’ve experienced in a single month since 1930.
They’ve also conceded 18 goals, tying a record for the most goals allowed in a calendar year since 1964.
Amorim was candid about the situation after the defeat, admitting, “It is also my fault. I think the team is not improving. It is a little bit lost in this moment.”
While acknowledging the challenges, he expressed his frustration with United’s current predicament, calling it “embarrassing” to be the coach of such a storied club in this state.
Deeper Issues Behind the Numbers
While results speak for themselves, it’s the underlying numbers that must be even more concerning for Amorim.
In the eight matches he’s managed, United have ranked poorly in virtually every critical category.
Their total of nine goals scored under Amorim is the fourth-worst in the Premier League since his appointment.
Meanwhile, their 9.18% shot conversion rate is one of the lowest in the league, and they’ve only kept one clean sheet, the second worst in the division.
Moreover, their defensive errors have led to four goals, and only two teams have made more mistakes.
Had the Premier League season started when Amorim took over, United would currently sit in 17th place with just seven points from eight games, teetering dangerously close to the relegation zone.
The Growing Threat of Relegation
Despite the club’s rich history and their status as 20-time league champions, the specter of relegation looms large for United at the halfway point of the season.
Amorim has acknowledged the grim reality, saying, “That is really clear, so we have to fight.”
He admitted that this could be one of the most difficult periods in the club’s history and stressed the need for honesty and hard work.
“I am responsible. I don’t like to make excuses. I think people are tired of excuses in this club. We need a shock,” he added.
Upcoming Tests: A Do-or-Die Moment for Amorim?
Things aren’t looking any easier for the manager.
United’s next match is an away fixture against league leaders Liverpool at Anfield, followed by a daunting FA Cup third-round tie against Arsenal.
But it’s the home game against Southampton on January 16 that might decide Amorim’s future.
A defeat to Southampton, who have shown improvement under their new manager, Ivan Juric, could see United fans reminiscing about their last relegation battle in the 1973-74 season.
Should this happen, it might force Amorim to reconsider his tactical approach.
His preferred system might simply be too complex for the current squad, and there are already signs that the players are struggling to adapt.
Finding a Way Forward
Amorim has said that he needs to “sell his idea” and stick to his tactics, despite the growing difficulties.
He’s aware that when a new coach is brought in, especially at a club like Manchester United, it’s because the team was losing with the old system.
“If I think the players with the right profile for each position, it will be different. This team was already in problems,” he said.
In the coming weeks, Amorim’s ability to inspire his squad and turn things around will be put to the test.
But with United’s future hanging by a thread, the pressure is mounting for the manager to find a solution – and fast.
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