Imagine the pressure cooker that is Manchester United, where a head coach's every decision is dissected under the spotlight—now picture Sir Jim Ratcliffe stepping in with a bold plan to give under-fire manager Ruben Amorim a full three years to turn the tide. It's a move that's sparking heated debates among fans and experts alike, and if you're passionate about the Red Devils, you won't want to miss the twists in this unfolding saga.
Manchester United's minority owner, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, has publicly stated his intention to grant the struggling head coach Ruben Amorim a generous three-year window to demonstrate his coaching prowess and deliver results.
The Portuguese tactician's current agreement extends through the conclusion of the 2026/27 season, which would equate to roughly two and a half years at the helm, complete with the possibility of an additional year if certain conditions are met.
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Amorim is nearing the one-year mark since his arrival at Old Trafford, yet his role has faced relentless criticism ever since he assumed the position on November 1 of the previous year.
During his tenure, he hasn't managed to secure consecutive victories in the Premier League—a key indicator of momentum and stability in top-flight football—and the team finished a disappointing 15th in the league last season, marking their lowest placement in the top division since 1974. Moreover, the situation hasn't shown significant improvement post-summer, as United suffered an early exit from the Carabao Cup after being defeated by League Two side Grimsby Town in August.
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These setbacks have fueled rumors that Amorim's position might be in jeopardy, but Ratcliffe has defended the 40-year-old as a 'good guy' who deserves time to steer the ship back on course.
'Ruben needs to show he's an exceptional manager over the course of three years,' Ratcliffe explained during an episode of The Business podcast (https://podfollow.com/the-business), a production by The Times and The Sunday Times.
When questioned directly about whether Amorim would receive that full three-year opportunity, Ratcliffe affirmed: 'Absolutely. That's my stance. Three years. Because success in football doesn't happen instantly.
'It's a three-year journey. Just look at Mikel Arteta's experience at Arsenal—he endured some tough early seasons.
'Patience is essential. We have a strategic long-term vision. It's not like flipping a switch.
'You can't operate a powerhouse like Manchester United based on impulsive decisions triggered by weekly media outbursts.'
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But here's where it gets controversial—what if the Glazers, the majority owners, push for Amorim's dismissal? Ratcliffe has made it clear that scenario won't unfold.
Since February 2024, Ratcliffe has held nearly 30 percent ownership of United through his chemical conglomerate INEOS, gaining authority over the club's football-related operations.
Despite this, the Glazer family, who have drawn widespread fan ire for their stewardship since acquiring the club in 2005, retain ultimate control.
When asked how he'd respond if the Glazers demanded Amorim's removal, Ratcliffe was unequivocal: 'It won't occur.'
The INEOS chief elaborated that the Glazers are supportive of his leadership, noting: 'That pretty much covers it. We're based locally, while they're across the Atlantic.
'Managing a colossal and intricate entity like Manchester United from afar is challenging. We're on the ground, hands-on.
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'They [the Glazers] often get unfairly criticized... but they're genuinely kind individuals deeply devoted to the club.'
And this is the part most people miss—Ratcliffe himself has faced backlash for his cost-cutting measures aimed at trimming expenses, which resulted in approximately 450 job losses and the elimination of benefits such as subsidized employee meals.
'The expenses had spiraled out of control. While there are many outstanding staff members at Manchester United, there was also a layer of underperformance, and the organization had grown excessively bloated,' he remarked.
'I took heat for ending the complimentary lunches, but I've never received a free meal myself.
'The strongest link, whether you like it or not, between performance and external elements is financial health. The more capital you possess, the superior team you can assemble.
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'So, much of our initial year has been dedicated to establishing the club on a stable, sustainable foundation.
'We're not yet reaping all the rewards from the reorganizations we've implemented in this financial report (United recently disclosed record earnings of £666.5 million for the previous season but a £33 million deficit for the fiscal year), and we missed out on Champions League qualification.
'Those figures will improve. In my opinion, Manchester United will emerge as the world's most lucrative football club, and from that foundation, I anticipate a prolonged era of consistent, elite-level play.'
Now, let's stir the pot a bit: Is Ratcliffe's unwavering support for Amorim a stroke of genius patience, or a risky gamble that could cost United dearly in the short term? And what about those job cuts—necessary tough love for long-term success, or a harsh betrayal of loyal staff? Do you agree with giving coaches like Amorim three years, or should football be more ruthless? Share your opinions in the comments below—we'd love to hear your take!
