New Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim has acknowledged the challenges he faces at Old Trafford, stating he is under “no illusions” about the difficulties ahead.
The 39-year-old was appointed to a two-and-a-half-year contract earlier this month. Although he officially begins his role this week, a work permit issue will delay his ability to hold training sessions until his visa is approved.
Amorim concluded his tenure at Portuguese club Sporting with a 4-2 victory against his former side Braga on Sunday night. After the match, he expressed his readiness for the new challenge.
“I feel ready for the new challenge,” he told reporters. “I’m not naive; I know it’s going to be very different, very difficult. I’m at peace now and can focus on my new job. I’m looking forward to starting tomorrow.”
He also noted the complexities of replicating his previous success elsewhere. “I understand it will be tough to reproduce what I have here, but there are other places with different exposure and pressure.”
During the international break, Amorim will have 13 days to prepare for his first match in charge, which will be an away game against Ipswich in the Premier League on November 24. He has primarily utilized a 3-4-3 formation in Portugal and is clear about how he intends to set up his team at United.
“I know how I want to play from the start, but you need a structure that you’re familiar with, and then you can adapt based on the players available,” Amorim explained. “Injuries, player types, and their abilities to defend and attack will all influence this, and I’ll learn more in the coming weeks.”
Manchester United has yet to confirm the details of Amorim’s coaching staff, including whether Ruud van Nistelrooy, who took over on an interim basis after Erik ten Hag’s departure, will remain with the club.
“I need to speak with him tomorrow,” Amorim stated on Sunday night. “I’ll explain everything clearly, and I’ll be open about it. So let’s wait until tomorrow.”
