In the wake of a resurgent Manchester United performance under the temporary stewardship of Michael Carrick, football icon Alan Shearer has launched a stinging critique of former manager Ruben Amorim, labelling the Portuguese as ‘arrogant’ during his tumultuous spell at Old Trafford.
Carrick has revitalised the Red Devils, guiding them to a dominant 2-0 triumph over Manchester City and a thrilling 3-2 comeback against league leaders Arsenal at the Emirates. This remarkable shift has propelled United back into the Premier League’s top four and sparked speculation regarding Carrick’s potential long-term appointment.
Yet, amidst the newfound optimism, Roy Keane has advised moderation, alluding to the possibility that the recent upswing might merely be a ‘new manager bounce’. Nevertheless, even the sceptical Keane concedes that the atmosphere at the club has transformed considerably.
Shearer is left pondering Amorim’s thoughts as he observes the drastic improvements since his departure earlier this month, after a fallout with the club hierarchy. A key tactical alteration has been Carrick’s implementation of a 4-2-3-1 formation, diverging from Amorim’s steadfast commitment to a 3-4-3 system which yielded disappointing results.
Speaking on ‘The Rest Is Football,’ Shearer remarked: “What on earth is Ruben Amorim thinking, looking at those two performances? To stick rigidly to a failing formation and refuse adaptation – it’s absolutely crazy. It’s the arrogance of insisting ‘it’s my way or the highway’.”
He added: “To not adjust or recognise something isn’t working was detrimental. He gambled everything on that formation, and when it didn’t succeed, he was finished.”
Meanwhile, Gary Neville, reflecting on his Sky Sports podcast following the Arsenal fixture, suggested Amorim might have ‘conditioned’ fans into believing Kobbie Mainoo couldn’t partner Bruno Fernandes in midfield – a theory Neville dismisses.
“Kobbie Mainoo wasn’t at his peak today,” admitted the former United full-back. “But he’s showcasing his ability. We were led to think he couldn’t play alongside Fernandes, which is incorrect. Mainoo’s performances, even alongside the ageing Casemiro, have been impressive.”
United supporters will hope Carrick’s tactical nous and man-management continue this enthralling resurgence, as discussions about his tenure gain traction amidst the club’s rejuvenated ascendancy.