A Manchester United legend has voiced concerns about the club potentially taking a risk on Rúben Amorim as their next manager. Instead, he has urged the club to prioritize hiring an experienced, world-class coach who has a proven track record at the highest level. With Erik ten Hag’s future uncertain, United must make a crucial decision that could determine whether they return to the top of English and European football.
Although Amorim has gained recognition for his work at Sporting CP—leading them to the Primeira Liga title in 2020-21 and nurturing young talent—his suitability for a club of Manchester United’s stature is questionable. While his achievements in Portugal are commendable, managing a club like United requires more than just potential; it demands experience at the elite level. Even Liverpool, known for their meticulous managerial selections, ultimately decided against appointing Amorim after initially considering him as Jürgen Klopp’s successor. If a club as strategically sound as Liverpool identified potential drawbacks in Amorim’s ability to succeed in the Premier League, it raises the question: Should Manchester United take the same risk?
The answer is clear—if United genuinely want to compete at the highest level next season, they must aim higher and appoint a manager with a distinguished record of success. Bringing in an established, world-class coach is the only way forward if the club hopes to restore its former glory. There are three standout candidates who fit the bill:
1. **Carlo Ancelotti** – Widely regarded as one of the greatest managers in football history, Ancelotti has won league titles in all of Europe’s top five leagues, including Serie A, the Premier League, the Bundesliga, Ligue 1, and La Liga. His ability to handle big personalities, adapt tactically, and manage high-pressure situations makes him an ideal candidate to take charge at Old Trafford. Ancelotti’s wealth of experience and history of success with elite clubs could provide the stability and leadership United desperately need.
2. **Zinedine Zidane** – A three-time Champions League-winning manager with Real Madrid, Zidane has already proven he can lead a team to sustained success at the highest level. His tactical intelligence, calm demeanor, and ability to command respect from world-class players could be exactly what United need to turn their fortunes around. With Zidane at the helm, United would have a manager who understands what it takes to win and manage a club with enormous expectations.
3. **Eddie Howe** – While not as decorated as Ancelotti or Zidane, Howe has demonstrated exceptional managerial skills at Newcastle United. Under his leadership, Newcastle have transformed into a competitive force in the Premier League, playing an exciting brand of football and building a strong team identity. His ability to implement a clear tactical philosophy and develop players could make him a viable option for United’s long-term future.
Ultimately, Manchester United cannot afford to gamble on an unproven manager if they are serious about returning to the pinnacle of European football. They need a leader with a history of winning at the highest level, someone who can handle the immense pressure that comes with managing one of the biggest clubs in the world. The appointment of the right manager could define United’s future, and for that reason, they must make a decision based on proven success rather than potential.
