Manchester United’s Downfall Under Ruben Amorim: Premier League Standings Since His Arrival

Manchester United’s struggles have reached new depths following the appointment of Portuguese manager Ruben Amorim. The Red Devils ended 2024 with a 2-0 home defeat to Newcastle United, marking a disappointing conclusion to a dismal year in the Premier League.

Amorim, who took over on November 11, 2024, has faced immense criticism as Manchester United’s form under his leadership has been far from inspiring. The team’s performances have raised serious concerns, with many comparing his tenure unfavorably to that of his predecessor, Erik ten Hag.

United’s Premier League Performance Under Amorim

Since Amorim’s appointment, Manchester United have played 8 league matches, securing just 7 points out of a possible 24. This poor return includes:

• Wins: 2
• Draws: 1
• Losses: 5

Such a record places Manchester United among the worst-performing teams in the league during this period. Their inability to string together consistent results has left the club in a precarious position, with the threat of relegation looming larger than ever.

Comparing the Top Four Performers

While Manchester United have faltered, other Premier League teams have thrived since Amorim’s arrival. Here’s a look at the top four teams based on points accumulated during this period:

1. Nottingham Forest: 18 points (8 matches)
2. Liverpool: 17 points (7 matches)
3. Arsenal: 17 points (7 matches)
4. Chelsea: 16 points (8 matches)

These clubs have displayed consistency and resilience, contrasting sharply with United’s dismal run. Nottingham Forest, in particular, has emerged as a surprise contender, showcasing impressive form to top this mini-table.

Manchester United’s Position in the Same Period

When isolating the Premier League standings to matches played under Amorim, Manchester United find themselves in the relegation zone:

• 18th: Manchester United – 7 points (8 matches)
• 19th: Leicester City – 4 points (8 matches)
• 20th: Southampton – 2 points (8 matches)

This ranking underscores the severity of United’s struggles and highlights the stark contrast between their performance and that of the league’s top teams.

A Closer Look at the Numbers

United’s statistics under Amorim paint a grim picture:

• Goals Scored: 6
• Goals Conceded: 15
• Clean Sheets: 1

The team’s inability to both score and defend effectively has been a major issue. Striker Rasmus Højlund has managed just 2 goals in this period, while the defense, led by Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez, has been unable to cope with the relentless pressure from opponents.

Comparing to Erik ten Hag’s Tenure

Under Erik ten Hag earlier in the season, Manchester United were inconsistent but far from relegation-threatened. Amorim’s appointment was seen as a bold move to rejuvenate the squad, but the results have been underwhelming.

• Ten Hag’s Final 8 League Games: 12 points
• Amorim’s First 8 League Games: 7 points

The drop-off in performance has been significant, leading to growing calls for change within the club’s management structure.

What’s Gone Wrong Under Amorim?

1. Tactical Adjustments:
   Amorim’s preference for a possession-based style has not suited United’s squad, which had grown accustomed to a counter-attacking approach under ten Hag. This transition has left players confused and unable to adapt quickly.
2. Player Performances:
   Key players like Marcus Rashford and Bruno Fernandes have struggled for form. Rashford, returning from a disciplinary absence, has not scored in his last 6 appearances, while Fernandes’ suspension has left a creative void in midfield.
3. Defensive Vulnerabilities:
   United’s defense has been alarmingly porous, conceding 15 goals in 8 games. The lack of cohesion at the back has been a recurring issue, with individual errors costing the team dearly.
4. Mental Fragility:
   The team has displayed a worrying lack of resilience, often crumbling after conceding the first goal. This was evident in their recent loss to Newcastle, where they failed to recover after Alexander Isak’s opener.

Looking Ahead

Manchester United’s immediate future looks challenging. The club sits in 14th place in the overall Premier League standings with 22 points, dangerously close to the relegation zone. Their next fixtures include tough matches against Arsenal and Chelsea, making it imperative for Amorim to turn things around quickly.

Key Statistics to Note

• Consecutive Home Losses: United have lost 3 consecutive home league games for the first time since February 1979.
• Worst Start in Over a Century: Amorim’s record of 5 losses in his first 8 league games is the worst for a United manager in 103 years.
• Most December Losses: United suffered 6 defeats in December 2024, their most in a single month since September 1930.

Conclusion

Ruben Amorim’s tenure at Manchester United has been a turbulent one so far, with the club’s performances falling well below expectations. As the Red Devils enter 2025, the pressure on Amorim to deliver results will only intensify.

The Portuguese manager must find a way to galvanize his squad and steer United away from the relegation battle. Failure to do so could see United endure one of their worst seasons in recent history, tarnishing the club’s legacy and leaving fans demanding significant changes at Old Trafford.