
Yesterday’s EPL game between Arsenal FC and Manchester United, played deep into the night, lived up to its billing. True to my—and many others’—expectations, the match showcased the character of both EPL clubs. Moreover, it was a significant test for Manchester United’s new head coach, Ruben Amorim.
For the players and their fans, it was a mix of celebration and regret, depending on which side they supported. Arsenal emerged as the victors with a 2-0 win over United. Congratulations to them! Meanwhile, United’s fans were left embarrassed after the online banter and tug-of-war between the two clubs’ supporters.
While the game ended in Arsenal’s favor, I believe United’s players should hold their heads high. Why take this unpopular stance? Because although Arsenal won the game, United won the glory. Period.
Yesterday’s match exposed Arsenal’s soft underbelly, revealing how easily the presumed kings of England’s tiki-taka football can be beaten at their own game. Ruben Amorim’s recent appointment as Manchester United’s head coach—barely a fortnight ago—should send shockwaves not only through the EPL but also across the global football fraternity.
Why do I say this? Let me explain. The Portuguese tactician arrived at Carrington when the once-mighty Manchester United languished in the bottom quarter of the Premier League table. Under their former manager, Erik ten Hag, teams looked forward to playing United, confident they could easily secure three points without breaking a sweat. However, Amorim brought a fresh footballing philosophy to United, and the players have quickly adapted to his system. Achieving such a transformation in such a short time is nothing short of remarkable.
In just two weeks as United’s coach, Amorim has been forced to work with players he didn’t sign—tools that aren’t his preferred choices. It’s like asking an artisan to craft a masterpiece with subpar tools. Despite these challenges, Amorim is proving to be a genius, and it won’t be long before he outshines every coach in the world.
United’s ability to outwit Arsenal in midfield, with a new player like the young Ugarte and Bruno Fernandes—who isn’t a natural central midfielder—raised questions about the competence of veteran midfielders like Declan Rice and Thomas Partey from Arsenal.
Similarly, the inability of Arsenal’s forwards to penetrate Manchester United’s three-man defense, despite boasting seasoned players like Bukayo Saka, Martin Ødegaard, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Martinelli, highlights United’s growing strength. This performance strongly suggests that United will soon reclaim their dominance in the footballing world.
If Ruben Amorim can dictate play against an in-form Arsenal, it’s safe to conclude that Manchester United are already turning the corner. With the January transfer window approaching, Amorim will finally have the opportunity to bring in his chosen players. The Ferguson era may well be on its way back to Old Trafford.