Ruben Amorim Delivers Reality Check to Man Utd Despite Commanding Victory
Manchester United's comfortable 2–0 triumph against Sunderland lacked excitement, though Ruben Amorim quickly shattered any sense of calm.
The brutally candid manager reminded those seeking encouragement that "we understand" what typically follows a United win: disappointing results. During Amorim's 11-month spell leading the Old Trafford club, the Red Devils have failed to achieve consecutive Premier League victories even once.
A challenging fixture against current league titleholders and bitter adversaries Liverpool blocks United's path to ending this streak. When Amorim was asked whether the approaching international pause might disrupt the positive energy from his squad's strongest display this campaign, the Portuguese coach dismissed: "Our team lacks momentum, regardless of breaks or no breaks.
"We understand what occurs after winning a single match," he lamented. "The disappointment stems from not witnessing consistency between home and away performances."
Following a solid showing in their season-opening loss to Arsenal, United have claimed victory in their previous three Old Trafford encounters, defeating a 10-man Chelsea squad sandwiched between matches against promoted sides Burnley and Sunderland.
In contrast, United's most recent away league success came against doomed Leicester City back in March. Fulham remains the sole existing Premier League team that Amorim's squad has overcome on the road in 2025.
Mason Mount, among multiple alterations to United's lineup, netted the opener versus Sunderland and displayed far greater optimism than his boss. "We're completely supporting the manager," he shared with BBC Sport. "We've experienced results that wounded us—the players, coaching staff and supporters—but today's performance mattered.
"We're determined to achieve consecutive victories," Mount added, "then string together three wins and climb toward the top four."
Even this demonstration of loyalty failed to brighten Amorim's mood. "I understand their desire to excel—and I recognize they don't wish to constantly replace coaches," he stated, those final words possibly suggesting the team occasionally favors his exit.
"However, truly backing the manager means: 'I will sacrifice everything during every transition.'" Amorim elaborated. "We must demonstrate through deeds, and when reviewing matches afterward, they realize we sometimes fall short. I sense this throughout the week, but we need to prove it on the field, not merely at home but on the road too."
Amorim Issues Caution to Senne Lammens
Among Saturday's bright spots for those not dwelling under Amorim's pessimistic outlook was debutant keeper Senne Lammens. The transfer deadline acquisition faced minimal pressure during his belated first appearance but handled his limited duties with assurance. The Stretford End's playful chant of "Are you Schmeichel in disguise?" carried only gentle mockery.
"Upon Senne's arrival, initially Altay [Bayındır] was featuring and he required adjustment time, new environment, fresh training methods, the intense scrutiny you place on goalkeepers was enormous, so some preparation was necessary before his maiden start," Amorim reflected.
"This represents just one match and he must continue working, he must prepare for the reality that circumstances at our institution are extremely challenging."