Manchester United continue their struggle to re-establish themselves as a formidable force in the Premier League under the guidance of Ruben Amorim.
The Portuguese manager, who impressed the Red Devils’ hierarchy with his incredible form at Sporting CP, has followed in the footsteps of Erik ten Hag and Ole Gunnar Solskjær in his struggles to get a tune out of his team.
Despite adding Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Šeško in the summer to form a fresh attacking threat, they are only tenth in the top-flight table, tallying up three wins, three defeats and one draw.
The Man United head coach is under pressure to find solutions to their inconsistent performances, with reports suggesting that replacements are already being explored, though a fresh update from Sir Jim Ratcliffe suggests otherwise.
“Ruben needs to demonstrate he is a great coach over three years,” he revealed to The Business podcast, produced by The Times and The Sunday Times.
“That is where I would be. Three years. Because football is not overnight.”
“It’s three years. You also look at [Mikel] Arteta at Arsenal. He had a miserable time over the first couple of years.”
“We have to be patient. We have a long-term plan. It isn’t a light switch.”
Given Ratcliffe’s comments, Man United supporters can expect to see Amorim for longer than they may have hoped.
However, it does mean that he could be further backed in the transfer market.
The 40-year-old has a very specific style of play and is determined to have his current squad grasp the basics of his philosophy, but January could be an opportunity to build on their long-term plan.
According to TEAMtalk, Manchester United are eyeing up a move for Borussia Dortmund talent Jobe Bellingham.
The publication claims that a shock move for the Englishman could be on the cards in the new year, attracted by his physicality and technical ability, with Crystal Palace also named as potential suitors.
It is reported that a bust-up between Bellingham’s father and Dortmund manager Niko Kovač has caused discontent, and with the World Cup coming up, the youngster is open to either a loan move or a transfer away from the German giants.
Should Man United sign Jobe Bellingham?
It is no secret that United have had a long-term interest in Bellingham’s progression, as he was a target even before his move to Sunderland.
With Casemiro in the latter stages of his career and reports continuing to mount about Bruno Fernandes’ future amid Saudi interest, there is definitely an opportunity for a midfield rebuild at Old Trafford over the next 12 months.
Before his £27m move to Dortmund, the 20-year-old helped the Black Cats secure Premier League promotion with five goals and four assists in all competitions, operating as an all-rounder in the centre of the pitch.
Dubbed a “freak of nature” by former teammate Dan Neil, Bellingham has long lived in the shadow of his older brother, Jude.
A move to Man United could not only help him make a name for himself, but also give him the chance to join his superstar sibling in the senior England squad, if he can hit the ground running after struggling for game time in Germany.
His outstanding defensive attributes in midfield could have a huge influence on improving Man United’s fortunes, as he boasts key strengths in blocking, ball retention and defensive contributions, making him a potential successor to Casemiro.
With that being said, it will be interesting to see if Man United make a move in January and what it would take for Dortmund to part ways with their young talent.
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