Manchester United are going through another uneasy stretch this season. They are trying to rebuild both confidence and identity as a side under Ruben Amorim. The Portuguese coach, who took charge in November 2024, arrived with high expectations and a clear tactical approach. Yet his time at Old Trafford has tested every part of that plan.
After a difficult campaign that ended with the team finishing 15th last season, they now sit 10th in the points table. The Red Devils still can’t string together consecutive league wins. The fans and the dressing room clearly see the uncertainty. Amid all this, one figure has spoken up with calm conviction.
According to The Telegraph, the defender Matthis de Ligt has come out in support of Amorim and stated that he has a smooth relationship with the manager due to their direct communication and the honesty that they share within themselves. The 26-year-old stated that he deeply values the straightforward approach of the Portuguese manager, as he himself follows that approach. De Ligt stated that such an approach does bring uncomfortable truths sometimes, but it does strengthen the mutual respect.
The 26-year-old believes that clear communication builds the foundation of any team that wants to move forward together. For De Ligt, Amorim’s transparency strengthens the group and keeps everyone united, even during tough spells. The Dutchman’s words come at a time when speculation over Amorim’s future grows louder each week.
“I have a good relationship with him [Amorim] because of this, because he’s quite direct and I am quite direct with him.
“It’s about honesty, and also in honesty you can say things that are sometimes not so good, and you accept that also, you know, because it’s the only way. Communication and clarity is the most important things in a team.”
We reported earlier that Paul Parker is adamant that Ruben Amorim has a ‘personal’ grudge against Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo. We also reported that Matthijs de Ligt highlighted differences between Erik ten Hag and Ruben Amorim at Manchester United. These reports have only increased the pressure on Amorim. Yet De Ligt’s public backing shows that several players in the squad still believe in their manager’s tactics and approach.
Amorim has a lot at stake in the upcoming Premier League match against Liverpool. This game at Anfield will provide him an opportunity to prove that his ideas and tactics can still work in one of the toughest stadiums in England. Critics have often attacked the 3-4-2-1 system that he has adamantly used at Manchester United, but players like De Light have shown with their words that they still trust their manager’s plans.
The 26-year-old centre-back is himself an integral part of the centre of the back three. He is adept at building attacks from the back and controls the rhythm of his team’s build-up with proper passing skills. Amorim will yet again depend on the Dutchman to be at his best at Anfield.
De Ligt will definitely start against Liverpool because of his consistent form and the trust that Amorim has in him. However, Liverpool’s dangerous attack will definitely test his defensive positioning and awareness. Beyond tactics, the fixture gives Amorim a crucial chance. A strong result can restore belief among supporters and convince the board that his project still matters.
A draw might calm the noise, but a win can transform everything. Amorim faces a mental and tactical test. His focus on honesty and structure has split opinion, but those values might help him guide United forward. If his players show that same clarity on the pitch, Anfield could become the start of a long-awaited revival.
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