Manchester United’s season is already in turmoil, with the club enduring its poorest Premier League opening since the 1992-93 campaign. Four matches into the new season, the Red Devils have managed to secure just four points, a return that has fueled growing uncertainty about manager Ruben Amorim’s ability to guide the team forward. Pressure is mounting quickly, and questions are being asked both by fans and the club’s decision-makers.
Amorim was backed strongly during the summer transfer window, with the board granting him the freedom to reshape the squad. He responded by making several signings: forward Matheus Cunha, winger Bryan Mbeumo, young talent Diego Leon, promising striker Benjamin Šeško, and goalkeeper Senne Lammens. While these acquisitions added depth in certain areas, one glaring omission stood out—the midfield. Many critics had identified midfield reinforcements as essential for balance and control, yet Amorim opted not to strengthen in that department. That decision has quickly come under the microscope, as United’s central play looks fragile, disorganized, and easily exploited by opponents.
The concerns became painfully clear during the latest Manchester derby. Facing Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium, United were comfortably beaten 3-0. The scoreline itself was damaging, but what truly worried supporters and pundits alike was the manner of the defeat. The team looked devoid of energy, aggression, and tactical structure. City dominated from start to finish, leaving United players chasing shadows and supporters questioning whether Amorim has the tactical nous to turn things around.
Amid the growing crisis, former Premier League striker Charlie Austin has voiced his opinion on what needs to change at Old Trafford. According to him, United may require a fresh face in the dugout if they are to salvage their season. Austin went so far as to name Zinedine Zidane as the perfect figure to take charge. In his view, Zidane’s stature, authority, and track record of success could inject much-needed confidence and respect into the squad. However, Austin also admitted there are doubts about whether the Frenchman would be willing to step into such a challenging situation, especially given the current disarray.
Interestingly, Austin also put forward a more unconventional suggestion: Sean Dyche. While Dyche might not have the glamour or pedigree of Zidane, Austin argued that he offers something United desperately lack—structure and discipline. Dyche’s past achievements with Burnley and Everton showcased his ability to organize teams, instill work ethic, and demand consistency. Austin acknowledged that some fans might dismiss Dyche as an uninspiring choice, but he insisted that United’s priority should be stability rather than star power.
Ultimately, Austin summed up the situation by stressing that while Zidane would be the dream hire, practicality points towards someone like Dyche. For a team currently in disarray, glamour appointments may not be the answer. What Manchester United need most at this moment, he argued, is order, fight, and a manager capable of restoring the basics—qualities Dyche has consistently demonstrated throughout his managerial career.
