New Manchester United manager Rúben Amorim has issued a clear message to his players, promising he can be both approachable and uncompromising when the situation demands. As United prepare to face Ipswich Town on Sunday, the 39-year-old Portuguese tactician will be making his Premier League debut, a match where Amad Diallo is expected to play a key role.
The Ivory Coast winger has emerged as a critical figure for the Red Devils this season, and he is likely to feature in Amorim’s plans as the team looks to end a dismal run of away form.
United have not secured an away victory since September 14, a streak they aim to break at Portman Road in the 16:30 GMT kick-off.
Speaking ahead of the match, Amorim outlined his managerial style in no uncertain terms.
While often seen with a smile on his face, the Portuguese coach warned that his approach includes a sharp edge when necessary.
“I can be the one who smiles,” Amorim said during Saturday’s press conference. “But I can also become a different person, if necessary.
There are times when there is room for a fool, but I can also be ruthless when necessary.”
Dubbed the “Smiling One” by the English media, Amorim acknowledged the moniker but distanced himself from comparisons to other Portuguese managerial greats, including José Mourinho, who famously declared himself the “Special One” upon his arrival at Chelsea in 2004.
“I just have to be myself,” Amorim stated. “I always have an eye for detail. I focus on the players and the history of the club. It’s a club that needs to win trophies.
But I can’t be the same person as Alex Ferguson. We live in different times, which require a different approach.”
Amad Diallo will likely be a focal point in Amorim’s new-look United, with the winger expected to build on his recent form.
The 21-year-old has grown in stature since joining the club, and Amorim’s arrival may signal further opportunities for him to shine under a system that values both individual talent and collective discipline.
However, Amorim made it clear that there will be no room for complacency in his squad.
“I can be the nicest guy you’ve ever seen,” he explained, “but when someone only thinks about themselves, you see a different side of me.”
United’s clash against Ipswich provides an opportunity to reset under Amorim’s leadership.
With the promise of a balanced yet demanding managerial approach, the team will look to secure a much-needed win and start building momentum for the challenges ahead.
