The cautious optimism that surrounded Manchester United at the start of the season has evaporated after a series of disappointing results. Manager Ruben Amorim is already under mounting pressure following a shock Carabao Cup defeat to fourth-tier Grimsby Town.
United, who made marquee summer signings including Benjamin Sesko and Matheus Cunha, have collected just one point from their opening two Premier League games. Since replacing Erik ten Hag, Amorim has earned only 28 points from 29 league matches, raising doubts about his future at Old Trafford.
Carabao Cup Disaster
At Blundell Park, Amorim made eight changes to his starting lineup, but even the introduction of big-money signings Bryan Mbeumo and captain Bruno Fernandes couldn’t save United. After a 2-2 draw, the game went to penalties, where Grimsby held their nerve. Cunha and Mbeumo both missed from the spot, leaving Amorim visibly distraught in the dugout.
“This feels like the limit. Something has to change,” Amorim admitted after the match.
Crisis Mode Returns
United’s struggles mirror last season’s decline, where they finished 15th in the Premier League — their worst campaign since 1974. Even the consolation of a Europa League final ended in heartbreak after losing to Tottenham Hotspur.
Amorim’s Premier League win percentage sits at 24.1%, a sharp drop compared to Ten Hag’s 51%. Despite heavy investment in the transfer market, results continue to disappoint.
What’s Next for Amorim?
Manchester United face Burnley at Old Trafford this weekend, a game that could decide Amorim’s immediate future. United are unbeaten in their last 23 matches against promoted clubs, but another slip-up would intensify calls for change.
For now, optimism has been replaced with uncertainty at Old Trafford. The coming weeks could be decisive in determining whether Amorim survives the pressure or becomes another casualty of Manchester United’s turbulent rebuild.
