Ruben Amorim has admitted Manchester United have lost their fear factor at Old Trafford, but insists he will turn the stadium back into a fortress. Ahead of their Premier League opener against Arsenal, the Portuguese coach vowed to make the Theatre of Dreams "an enjoyable place" again for Red Devils fans after last season's struggles.
Amorim admits Old Trafford lost its aura after last season
Man Utd have spent £210m on Sesko, Cunha and Mbeumo
Portuguese coach vows to restore fortress mentality
Manchester United endured a miserable 2024-25 campaign, losing nine home league games and finishing 15th in their worst top-flight season in over five decades. Amorim, who replaced Erik ten Hag last November, has overseen a major summer rebuild with the arrivals of Benjamin Sesko, Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo. The trio were signed to inject attacking firepower and help restore confidence at Old Trafford.
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AFP
WHAT AMORIM SAID
Speaking to the media, Amorim said: "We’ve got to make it (Old Trafford) an enjoyable place for our fans. That is really important. We start with one game against Arsenal, a very good team. Everyone in this room thinks Arsenal are going to win. I know that. But we will be there on Sunday to change things.
"It’s not a mental thing – but it’s not just the players, it’s also the fans. In the (friendly) game against Fiorentina, you could feel it. The fans were a little bit nervous. This feeling, you cannot change it in one day or one game. It’s a feeling that we have to fight. Everyone together – the players, the coaches and the fans. Together, we are going to change things. If you want to win things and be a very strong team, then especially at home you have to win games.”
THE BIGGER PICTURE
The pressure is on Amorim after a £210 million ($285m) summer spend and the potential exits of the Red Devils' 'bomb squad'. United’s priority this season is to re-establish their home ground as a place opponents fear visiting. Amorim insists building momentum at Old Trafford is key to challenging for trophies again.
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WHAT NEXT FOR MAN UTD?
The Red Devils host Arsenal at Old Trafford in their Premier League opener on Sunday, with Amorim targeting a statement victory. New signings Sesko, Cunha and Mbeumo are all expected to feature as fans hope to see a more ruthless United.