Manchester United’s head coach Ruben Amorim reportedly reacted with intense anger in the dressing room after a 3-1 defeat to Brighton in the Premier League. The incident highlighted the pressure on the new manager as United navigated a difficult stretch and attempted to reset after the match. In the days that followed, the squad and staff faced a storm of questions about form, leadership, and the path forward for a club eager to reestablish itself in England’s top flight.
In private, Amorim directed sharp criticism at the players, and his outburst extended to the locker room equipment when a television screen was damaged. The episode left gear in need of repair and served as a stark symbol of the heated mood surrounding United’s camp in the immediate aftermath of the defeat, underscoring the emotional stakes involved in turning around a season that had faltered on the road to glory.
That setback came on January 19, when United slipped further in the standings, leaving them 13th in the Premier League with 26 points. Liverpool held the lead with 50 points, while Nottingham Forest and Arsenal trailed close behind in second place on 44 points each, a reflection of a league that remains highly competitive and unforgiving for teams chasing a title and a return to European football spots.
On November 1, Amorim was appointed as Manchester United’s manager, with a contract running through the summer of 2027 and an option to extend for an additional year. The 39-year-old coach had previously been on the radar of other major clubs, with links to potential roles at Liverpool and West Ham United illustrating the high level of interest in a manager known for a modern, adaptable approach and an ability to develop players at pace.
The Portuguese tactician had led Sporting CP since March 2020 and had previously managed S.C. Braga. He built a reputation for pursuing a progressive, flexible style that emphasized youth development, tactical versatility, and a willingness to adjust formations to suit the squad and the opposition. Those traits were cited as reasons United pursued a change in leadership and sought fresh perspectives for a club seeking to re-establish consistency amid intense domestic and European competition.
Earlier, Amorim did not shy away from addressing the team’s relegation fears, acknowledging the harsh realities of the Premier League and urging focus, discipline, and momentum to climb away from danger. His comments reflected a manager intent on building resilience within the squad, creating a mindset that combines accountability with the confidence needed to pursue an ambitious project in a league renowned for its scrutiny and pace.