Manchester United’s newly appointed manager Ruben Amorim has taken a notably measured approach ahead of his first Manchester derby, emphasizing long-term improvement over the immediate rivalry showdown at the Etihad Stadium. The Portuguese tactician’s pragmatic stance reflects a clear vision for rebuilding the struggling football giant.
Speaking candidly through the club’s official website, Amorim articulated a perspective that might surprise many United supporters. Rather than feeding into the traditional derby day fervor, he deliberately downplayed the emotional significance of facing Manchester City, framing it as “just one more game with a very good opponent.
This measured approach comes at a fascinating time in United’s history, with Amorim having already demonstrated his tactical prowess against City earlier in the 2024-25 season. However, the Portuguese manager’s focus appears firmly fixed on a broader horizon beyond individual matchups, regardless of their historical significance.
I’m really focused on the details,” Amorim explained, highlighting his methodical approach to team development. His acknowledgment that both teams are currently struggling adds an interesting dimension to what traditionally would be a clash between title contenders. This reality check serves as a stark reminder of Manchester United’s current position in English football’s hierarchy.
Amorim’s candid admission that he “cannot live it like a normal derby” speaks volumes about his practical mindset. While acknowledging the fixture’s importance to the fans, he maintains that the current situation prevents it from being what it should be – “two great teams fighting for the title.” This honest assessment demonstrates both his understanding of the club’s storied history and his realistic grasp of present circumstances.
The manager’s approach represents a significant departure from the traditional build-up to Manchester derbies, which historically have been characterized by heightened emotions and dramatic declarations. Instead, Amorim’s focus on systematic improvement and consistent performance suggests a longer-term strategy for returning Manchester United to its former glory.
This strategic outlook aligns with the broader challenges facing Manchester United. The club, once the dominant force in English football, has struggled to maintain its elite status in recent years. Amorim’s appointment represents hope for a return to form, but his comments suggest he’s well aware that such a transformation requires patience and methodical work rather than emotional reactions to individual fixtures.
The Portuguese manager’s track record of success and his previous tactical victory over Manchester City this season lend credibility to his approach. His focus on improving the team’s fundamental aspects rather than getting caught up in derby day emotions demonstrates a clear understanding of what Manchester United needs at this juncture.
Looking beyond the immediate challenge of the Manchester derby, Amorim’s statement about hoping to “feel that real feeling of a derby” in the future reveals his ambition to restore United to a position where such matches truly represent battles between equals competing for championships. This long-term vision, while perhaps less exciting than traditional derby day hyperbole, might be exactly what Manchester United needs.
As Manchester United continues its journey under Amorim’s leadership, his emphasis on steady improvement and winning games, rather than individual emotional battles, could prove crucial in rebuilding the team’s competitive edge. While the derby remains significant, particularly for supporters, Amorim’s measured approach suggests a manager focused on sustainable success rather than temporary triumphs.
The coming months will reveal whether this methodical approach can deliver the improvements Manchester United desperately seeks. For now, Amorim’s clear-headed focus on development over drama offers a refreshing perspective on how to rebuild a football institution, one careful step at a time.
