Rubén Amorim has made a strong entrance at United. He wants to be the authority, a premise under which he decided to join the Red Devils. But so did Ten Hag, and he failed to win the dressing room over, nor could he establish a common identity. A firm hand with Marcus Rashford that’s Amorim’s approach, knowing the tremendous potential of the player but also his lack of professional discipline, as Rashford tends to lose focus easily. It’s no coincidence that Rashford has been unable to either lead or rank among the world’s best players despite his power and directness.

Amorim is calling him out. United has recorded its worst start in the Premier League since the competition was founded, and that puts pressure on a player who should be averaging close to a goal per game. Not even close. Inconsistency, moments few and far between of brilliance, and long stretches of invisibility both on and off the field. His habits are his downfall, and there’s no place for that under Amorim.

Beyond that, transfers and funding are key. Amorim wants a central striker, a center-back who excels in duels and can defend high up the pitch, and an attacking left-back capable of creating overloads in offensive plays. Ronald Araújo is the chosen candidate for the center-back position. They are also looking for a goalkeeper who stands two meters tall. The new United will require substantial investment and, most importantly, smart decision-making.