Man United enter danger zone: Amorim under scrutiny

December 15, 2025 Oliver Obel

United arrive at the fixture with two wins from their last five matches, including a convincing 4–1 victory over Wolves at Molineux. Depending on other results, they could climb as high as fifth by the end of the gameweek a modest sign of progress for a side that finished a dismal 15th last season.

Dropped points remain costly. A 1–1 draw with West Ham, after United took the lead, and a 1–0 home defeat to a 10-man Everton side earlier this month have slowed momentum despite a more productive attacking structure compared to last year.

Even so, Amorim’s position appears far more secure than it was at several points last term. Transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano reported that United have no intention of dismissing the manager before the January window, with the club preparing to recruit reinforcements in several positions.

Criticism from legends “normal”, says Amorim

Amorim’s steadier footing has not shielded him from pointed commentary by former players. Paul Scholes, speaking on The Good, The Bad & The Football podcast, argued that Amorim is not “the right man” for United because his tactical approach does not reflect the club’s traditional wide play.

Asked about such remarks, Amorim said he sees them as an expected consequence of underperformance.

“I think it's normal,” he told BBC Sport. “It's a fact that me as a manager of Manchester United, I think we are underachieving. We should have more points, especially this season.”

He added that ex-players often measure the team against the standards they lived through an era under Sir Alex Ferguson in which finishing outside the top three was almost unthinkable.

What he rejected, however, was the notion that pundit criticism complicates his job. “Not winning is the issue… If you are winning, there is no issue.”

Injuries, AFCON absences and a test of depth

Amorim’s squad management is set to be challenged further as several first-team players prepare for Africa Cup of Nations duty. Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo and Noussair Mazraoui are expected to depart once the tournament begins on December 21.

The Manchester Evening News reported that United are keeping “under wraps” whether any of the three will feature against Bournemouth, with FIFA's release deadline falling on the same day as the match.

Their absence arrives at a difficult moment for the defence as well, with Matthijs de Ligt and Harry Maguire both sidelined. Teenage centre-backs Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven may be required across the coming weeks, adding more inexperience to a stretched squad.

Former United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that the looming AFCON departures will be a severe examination of Amorim’s ability to sustain form.

“Losing Mbeumo is going to be a big blow, because he's so important to what United have done recently,” Brown said. “They don't have anybody who gives them the type of energy he gives going forward. Plus, Amad and Mazraoui will be going away too, so that's the right-hand side weakened.”

Brown warned that results could dip if United fail to adapt:

“Now, the manager needs to find a way of coping without these players … otherwise results and performances are going to nosedive.”

Although he believes Amorim is unlikely to be sacked without a dramatic collapse, Brown added that “there are definitely concerns” should form deteriorate during the AFCON period.

Mainoo’s situation unresolved

Meanwhile, the future of midfielder Kobbie Mainoo remains an open question. Despite enthusiastic support from travelling fans during the win at Wolves, he has yet to start a Premier League match this season. BBC Sport previously reported that Mainoo was willing to move on loan for playing time after United blocked a summer switch to Napoli.

Amorim said he would be “really pleased” if Mainoo approaches him directly regarding his situation, adding: “I just want my players happy.” While he remains open to discussion, he stressed that he will not abandon principles he believes in.

Sources: BBC Sport, Manchester Evening News, Football Insider, Fabrizio Romano