Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has received a significant boost as his team faces a favourable run of Premier League fixtures that could propel them up the table.
Golden Opportunity for Table Ascent
The Red Devils won't encounter any traditional 'big six' opponents across their next ten league matches, providing a perfect platform to build momentum. This comes at an ideal time as United are beginning to find their rhythm after a difficult start to the season that saw pressure mounting on Amorim.
United currently sit seventh in the Premier League after eleven games and are enjoying a five-match unbeaten streak. Their recent improved form includes impressive victories against in-form Sunderland, reigning champions Liverpool, and a tricky Brighton side that has often troubled them in previous seasons.
Fixture Analysis and AFCON Concerns
United's last two outings resulted in draws against Nottingham Forest and Tottenham Hotspur, with Matthijs de Ligt earning a late point against Spurs. The team returns to action on Monday night hosting Everton at Old Trafford, followed by an away trip to Crystal Palace six days later.
The favourable fixture list means United won't face a traditional top-six side until mid-January when they meet neighbours Manchester City. However, the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations presents a significant challenge, with key players Bryan Mbeumo, Amad and Noussair Mazraoui set to depart for the tournament in late December.
Amorim's Squad Rotation Challenge
The Africa Cup of Nations concludes on January 18, meaning United will be without these important squad members during a crucial period. Amorim has already addressed the situation, viewing it as an opportunity for other players to step up and prove their worth.
During a recent interview, the United head coach stated: "When I watch the training, there are players that should be playing, but it's hard with one game to take some players from the team - because they are doing well also during the training, in games. So other players are going to have the opportunity to help us."
Manchester United's next 10 Premier League fixtures:
- Everton (H) - Monday, November 24 (8pm)
- Crystal Palace (A) - Sunday, November 30 (12pm)
- West Ham United (H) - Thursday, December 4 (8pm)
- Wolves (A) - Monday, December 8 (8pm)
- AFC Bournemouth (H) - Saturday, December 13 (3pm)
- Aston Villa (A) - Sunday, December 21 (4.30pm)
- Newcastle United (H) - Friday, December 26 (8pm)
- Wolves (H) - Tuesday, December 30 (8.15pm)
- Leeds United (A) - Sunday, January 4 (12:30pm)
- Burnley (A) - Wednesday, January 7 (8.15pm)
While the fixture list appears manageable on paper, the absence of key players during the Africa Cup of Nations period will test United's squad depth and Amorim's managerial capabilities as they seek to capitalise on this golden opportunity.
