Ruben Amorim took over as Manchester United’s head coach in November with hopes of replicating the success he had at Sporting Lisbon. So far, though, the results have fallen short of expectations. With questions mounting ahead of the 2025–26 campaign, one Manchester United star has shed light on the coach’s standing within the squad.
Manchester United not only lost the UEFA Europa League final but also finished in a historic low — 15th place in the Premier League, the worst in club history. Amorim’s record hasn’t helped his case either: through 42 matches, he’s recorded 17 wins, 8 draws, and 17 losses, with a modest average of 1.4 points per game.
Amid the scrutiny, midfielder Manuel Ugarte spoke to the media after United’s preseason win over West Ham, offering support for Amorim: “We have to improve things. We have matches to prepare for. We are all very motivated, because we believe in the coach, we believe in what he wants and that is very important.”
The Uruguayan also reflected on the team’s instability last season. “Last year we made some changes, we changed our coach, we changed our formation. This year I am good, I am very excited. It is important to perform well in this club, with United,” he added.
Since joining from Paris Saint-Germain in a €50 million move, Ugarte has become a key figure in Amorim’s United setup. The two worked together previously at Sporting Lisbon, and Amorim has built his midfield around the 23-year-old, who once again looks like an automatic starter.
“You have to have responsibilities when you play for United. I am very happy and we have to keep going. Sometimes the connections take time to get to know each other. I already know the league, the rivals, which is important,” addressed Ugarte, who’s set to start his second season at the English side.
Manchester United board backs Amorim in the transfer market
With the Premier League Summer Series underway, United started strong with a 2–1 win over West Ham — a glimpse of the playing style Amorim is trying to implement. Despite last season’s poor results, the United board continues to back him, a fact reflected in their aggressive activity in the transfer market.
Amorim’s first major signing came in January, when United paid €30 million to Lecce for left-back Patrick Dorgu. This summer, the Red Devils made a splash with two marquee additions: Bryan Mbeumo for €75 million and Matheus Cunha for €74.2 million. Reports also link the club to Benjamin Sesko, valued at around €80 million — a massive outlay that underscores the board’s trust in Amorim to restore United’s status as a top contender.