Manchester United have endured a tumultuous 12 years since the end of Sir Alex Ferguson’s era of dominance sparked a decade-plus-long decline. Yet, the mood has never been as low as this. Even in United’s seemingly endless mediocrity, 15th in the Premier League with 13 games remaining is uncharted territory.
Erik ten Hag’s continued struggle for results set the Red Devils on the path to another disappointing season after finishing eighth last term.
Ineos would have viewed Ruben Amorim’s arrival as a catalyst for positive change despite the squad he inherited from the Dutchman not suiting his 3-4-3 system.
However, the situation has worsened over the first three months of his reign. United were four points adrift of the top four when Amorim landed at Old Trafford but now trail by 15.
The M16 giants have failed to score in nine of their 25 Premier League outings this season, most recently in Sunday’s 1-0 defeat at Tottenham.
United’s latest loss was their eighth in the last 12 league games, intensifying expectations that a first-ever bottom-half finish is inevitable.
On Tuesday, Mail Sport reported that some players are starting to lose faith in Amorim’s 3-4-3 system as they continue to taste defeat.
It’s claimed that the Portuguese head coach retains his players’ support, but confidence in his philosophy is decreasing.
United stars are said to believe that even when the team win, it’s down to moments of individual brilliance or a slice of luck rather than tactical superiority.
However, amid the rut Amorim’s squad finds itself in, his players have reportedly taken extra measures in an attempt to overturn their poor fortunes.
Mail Sport add that the squad has organised a team-bonding meal in Manchester to connect away from the high-pressure environment of Carrington.
United face another daunting task at Saturday lunchtime when they travel to Goodison Park for the final time, where a rejuvenated Everton side awaits.
Everton have won four of their last five Premier League games under David Moyes, drawing the other against leaders Liverpool.
An unlikely victory for United could propel them to as high as 12th, while yet another defeat could demote them to 16th.
There is a widespread acceptance that Amorim won’t be able to find a perfect tune from his players until his reshaping of the squad accelerates in the summer.
However, he is under immediate pressure to improve results to prevent the campaign from going from bad to worse.
Content Source: www.express.co.uk