BREAKING NEWS: Ruben Amorim Slams Players After Manchester United’s Defeat to Wolves
Manchester United’s woes deepened on Boxing Day, suffering a 2-0 loss to Wolverhampton Wanderers, their third consecutive defeat in all competitions. Manager Ruben Amorim did not hold back in expressing his frustration, particularly towards captain Bruno Fernandes, whose early second-half red card played a pivotal role in the team’s downfall.
The match at Molineux took a dramatic turn when Fernandes was shown a second yellow card for a reckless tackle shortly after the interval, leaving United a man down. Wolves quickly capitalized on the advantage, with Matheus Cunha scoring from a corner that embarrassingly sailed past goalkeeper Andre Onana in the 58th minute. Hwang Hee-Chan sealed the win with a stoppage-time goal, leaving United in 14th place in the Premier League, dangerously close to the relegation zone.
Amorim’s Frustration with Fernandes
After the match, Amorim’s frustration was clear, particularly with Fernandes. Reports suggest that the manager ‘completely blanked’ the midfielder as he left the pitch, signaling his disappointment with the captain’s lack of discipline. While Amorim avoided publicly criticizing Fernandes, he acknowledged the negative impact of the red card, stating, “It’s so tough to win a game in the Premier League with 11 men. With 10 men, it’s even more so.”
Pressure Mounts on Amorim
This loss adds to Amorim’s growing list of struggles, with five defeats in his first 10 matches since taking over from Erik ten Hag. This makes Amorim the fastest manager in Premier League history to reach such a tally of losses. The manager admitted the challenge of his position, commenting, “I manage, but I didn’t train [the players]. They need time to train; they are completely changing the way of playing. In this moment, we just have to survive and win some time to work on the team.”
More Trouble Ahead
The defeat worsens United’s situation, with both Fernandes and Manuel Ugarte suspended for the next match against Newcastle United, further depleting an already struggling squad. Fans have expressed their frustration, with some calling for drastic changes. One supporter remarked, “No Bruno and Ugarte too vs Newcastle. What’s the point in any of it. Get rid of the lot.”
Rashford’s Continued Exclusion
Amorim’s disciplinary stance has also raised eyebrows, notably the ongoing exclusion of forward Marcus Rashford. Rashford, sidelined for the last four matches, had expressed a desire for a new challenge but has not shown the necessary response to be reinstated, according to Amorim. The manager stated, “It’s always the same reason. We have to be the same professionals, winning or losing. Losing, I have to be stronger. I will continue with my idea until the end.”
Fan Unrest and the Road Ahead
The recent run of poor performances has led to growing unrest among the United fanbase, with many questioning both the tactics and commitment of the players. Amorim, known for his tactical prowess at Sporting CP, is now under intense pressure to deliver results in the Premier League. As one frustrated fan put it, “United needs an open surgery.”
With difficult fixtures ahead, including a clash against a resurgent Newcastle side, Amorim finds himself at a critical juncture in his career. The need for immediate improvement is clear—not only to salvage the season but also to secure his future at Old Trafford.
