As the Ole Trafford stands reverberate with a fresh refrain, Manchester United’s newly installed manager Ruben Amorim finds himself in an unfamiliar position – urging fans to redirect their musical appreciation. The 39-year-old Portuguese tactician, who assumed the reins just three weeks ago, has swiftly become the subject of a catchy chant set to the tune of KC and the Sunshine Band’s disco classic “Give It Up.”
While Amorim appreciates the warm welcome from the United faithful, he believes the players deserve the lion’s share of vocal support. Speaking candidly after his side’s resounding 4-0 victory over Everton on Sunday, the former Sporting CP boss expressed his preference for chants that champion the team’s on-field exploits.
I don’t like my chant, I don’t like it. I feel a little bit, not embarrassed, but because I’m the coach, they have to chant for the players and for the club. So it’s not a good thing for me.
Ruben Amorim, Manchester United Manager
A Humble Approach
Amorim’s stance underscores his humble, team-first approach to management. Despite the early adulation from supporters, the young coach remains focused on fostering a strong connection between the fans and his players.
I understand and really appreciate the connection with the supporters, but I want them to support the team and the players because they are on the pitch and I’m outside the pitch.
Ruben Amorim
The United boss acknowledged the importance of maintaining positive results to sustain the fans’ goodwill, emphasizing that on-field success is the true barometer of a manager’s impact.
Gearing Up for Arsenal Clash
As Amorim prepares his squad for a crucial midweek encounter against Premier League leaders Arsenal, he has been buoyed by the return to fitness of key players. Bruno Fernandes, who received treatment for an ankle injury following the Everton win, is expected to feature at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, summer signing Leny Yoro could be in line for his competitive debut after recovering from a broken foot sustained during the club’s preseason tour of the United States. The 19-year-old French defender, who arrived from Lille for a reported £52.2 million ($63 million), has impressed Amorim with his speed, technical ability, and modern defensive skills.
I feel he is in a good moment now, his fitness is better, so I think he is going to be in the squad. I think he’s a special talent.
Ruben Amorim on Leny Yoro
A Measured Approach to Integrating Talent
Despite his excitement over Yoro’s potential, Amorim stressed the need for caution when integrating the youngster into the first-team setup. The United boss plans to carefully manage the defender’s minutes and workload to ensure a smooth transition to the rigors of English football.
As Amorim navigates the challenges of his new role, his measured approach and focus on collective success have already endeared him to the Manchester United faithful. While he may prefer the chants to echo the names of his players, there’s little doubt that Ruben Amorim’s impact on the club’s fortunes will continue to be music to the ears of the Old Trafford crowd.
With a pivotal clash against Arsenal looming and the potential for new stars to emerge, Manchester United supporters have plenty to sing about as the Amorim era takes flight. Whether the fans will heed their manager’s call to redirect their chants remains to be seen, but one thing is certain – the harmony between the Portuguese tactician and the United faithful is just beginning to find its melody.