Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim says he is determined to stick with his tactical system despite growing pressure, warning that even “the Pope” couldn’t convince him to make a change right now.
Amorim, who has overseen United’s worst start to a Premier League season in 33 years, is under intense scrutiny after a string of poor results. But the Portuguese coach remains defiant, stating that any changes to his 3-4-2-1 formation will come in time—not out of panic.
“No, no, no. Not once [have I thought about changing it]. Not even the Pope [can make me], it will not change,” Amorim said ahead of Saturday’s clash with Chelsea, live on Sky Sports.
Since taking over at Old Trafford last November, Amorim has struggled to impose his style, with United averaging just one point per game and posting a -13 goal difference—the worst among all ever-present Premier League sides this season.
While he admits the system will eventually evolve, Amorim is wary of what sudden changes might signal to his players.
“If I’m a player and I see my coach under pressure and changing the system immediately, they’ll look at me differently,” he explained. “This is my job, my responsibility, my life. I will not change that. But yes, the system will evolve—we just need time to take the right steps.”
Amorim also revealed that he has not discussed his tactical setup with United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, despite speculation about internal disagreements over the team’s direction.
One key talking point has been the role of club captain Bruno Fernandes, who has been deployed in a deeper position under Amorim’s system. Critics argue the shift limits his attacking influence.
Amorim, however, insists Fernandes remains vital in helping United control games from midfield.
“Bruno wants all the freedom in the world. He’s still getting near the box and having shots. I want him deeper to control the game more—we’re doing that. Sometimes we miss him in front, maybe because Matheus Cunha isn’t there.”
He added that Fernandes’ frustration stems more from results than positioning.
“He’s frustrated because we’re not winning. But it’s not about Bruno playing well—it’s about the team playing well and winning football matches.”
Despite the poor form, Amorim believes underlying performances have shown signs of progress. What’s missing, he says, is the kind of belief and confidence that top sides like Liverpool have demonstrated.
“It’s belief, confidence, aggression—sometimes what we call luck. That’s what helps you win games late like Liverpool. We need to play with more conviction.”
United will host Chelsea at Old Trafford on Saturday at 5:30 PM, live on Sky Sports, in a fixture that could prove decisive for Amorim’s future at the club.
With mounting pressure from fans and the board, a poor result could push United closer to another managerial shake-up—unless Amorim’s evolving vision starts delivering wins.
