Ruben Amorim’s Manchester United future is under heavy scrutiny after Sunday’s 3-0 derby defeat to Manchester City.
The loss confirmed the club’s worst league start since 1992/93 and left the Portuguese coach fighting to defend both his record and his system.
United have managed just one win in the league so far this season, against Burnley, while dropping points to Arsenal, Fulham and City.
Amorim has only won eight of his 31 league matches in charge, with fans and pundits increasingly questioning whether his methods are working at Old Trafford.
Speaking after the derby, Amorim admitted: “Guys, I understand that and I accept. It is not a record you should have in Manchester United… When I want to change my philosophy, I will change. If not, you have to change the man.”
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Benfica enter the picture to hire Ruben Amorim
As pressure builds in England, reports from Portugal suggest Amorim could have a way out. According to newspaper A Bola, Benfica are monitoring his situation closely ahead of their upcoming presidential elections.
Candidate Joao Noronha Lopes, who is running for president with former striker Nuno Gomes as his vice-president, has reportedly placed Amorim on a shortlist of managerial options.
Both men were present at the Etihad during United’s defeat, fuelling speculation.
Benfica are said to be exploring bold moves, including a push to bring Manchester City’s Bernardo Silva back to Lisbon.
Adding Amorim, who ended Sporting’s long title drought, would be a statement move in their rivalry with his former club.
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Stats don’t flatter Amorim
United’s numbers under the 40-year-old paint a troubling picture.
| Manager | Games | Wins | Draws | Losses | Win % |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ruben Amorim | 47 | 18 | 9 | 20 | 38.3% |
Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown was blunt in his assessment: “The calibre of players is not good enough anymore at Manchester United. I think he’s stripped the club of anybody with any real individual talent… The team system doesn’t look like the players believe in it.”
With Chelsea up next, United’s board faces a crucial decision. Stick with Amorim and risk further decline, or cut their losses early.
For now, Amorim insists he will keep fighting. But as many fans see it, United’s season is already heading into extra time — and the manager may not be the one taking the final whistle.
