The dismissal of Ruben Amorim from Manchester United after just 14 months in charge has sparked the usual post-mortem on statistics and tactical failings. Yet, for those looking beyond the raw numbers, the Portuguese manager's brief tenure at Old Trafford should be remembered for something far more enduring: his fundamental decency and professionalism.
A Record That Failed to Impress
On paper, Ruben Amorim's record at Manchester United was undeniably poor. Appointed in late 2024 on a three-year project, he was relieved of his duties in January 2026. His Premier League win rate stood at just under 32 percent, with only 15 victories from 47 league games. His tactical approach was often criticised for its rigidity, and the team seemed to tread water under his leadership, neither surging forward nor collapsing entirely.
The club sat sixth in the Premier League table at the time of his sacking, a position deemed unacceptable for a club of United's stature. His reign culminated in a Europa League final defeat to Tottenham Hotspur in Bilbao, a loss sealed by a scruffy goal in a match of low quality.
The Mark of a Decent Man
Despite the underwhelming results, those who observed Amorim closely noted a consistent dignity in his conduct. Unlike many of his peers, he was rarely seen berating match officials or milking acclaim after a victory. In defeat, he avoided inflammatory rants against officialdom.
He was, by all accounts, unfailingly polite and humble. This civility extended to his dealings with the media, where he endeavoured to answer every question thoughtfully, even in a non-native language—a point of irony not lost on observers when English pundits criticised his press conference style.
His character was highlighted by a poignant gesture: for that Europa League final in Bilbao, Amorim personally paid for 30 of his backroom staff and their families to attend the showpiece event. After the final whistle, a genuinely dejected Bruno Fernandes spoke warmly and sincerely about his now-former manager.
Was the Job Simply Too Big?
The rapid conclusion that Amorim was 'out of his depth' at a club of United's magnitude has been a dispiriting narrative for some. Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the influential figure at the club, had publicly stated that Amorim was 'an excellent manager' and deserved a full three-year cycle to prove himself.
The question of whether the job was too big for him remains open. However, there is a growing suspicion within football circles that the Premier League has not seen the last of Ruben Amorim. His integrity and approach to management are seen as assets that could well earn him another opportunity at a top-level English club in the future.
In an era often defined by Machiavellian intrigue and outsized egos, Amorim's tenure may ultimately be recalled not for a trophy lift, but for a demonstration of how to represent a historic club with grace under considerable pressure. His legacy at Old Trafford, therefore, is one of character over silverware.
