Manchester United is hopeful that Ruben Amorim can revive the careers of Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee.
Both players have yet to fulfill their potential at Old Trafford after high-profile transfers. Hojlund joined from Atalanta in the summer of 2023 and, despite being United’s top striker, has struggled with consistency, as shown by his 18 goals in 53 appearances.
After an injury setback at the start of the season, the 21-year-old has struggled to find his form. He has scored just two goals so far and hasn’t found the net since mid-October, leaving many questioning his consistency. Despite being a promising talent, his performances have not lived up to the expectations set by his move to Manchester United, and fans are eager for him to return to his best.
The 23-year-old had a dream debut, scoring in the season opener against Fulham, but has failed to score since. Reports suggest Erik ten Hag was dissatisfied with the striker’s signing. While Amorim, who is set to replace the Dutchman, will look to add new players in the upcoming transfer windows, he must also make the most of the current squad.
The Portuguese coach has demonstrated at Sporting his ability to develop players, with Victor Gyokeres, who scored a hat-trick against Manchester City this week, serving as a prime example.
The 26-year-old Swede has been a late bloomer, having played in the Championship with Coventry City only 18 months ago after being overlooked by larger clubs early in his career. Since moving to Sporting for just £20m in 2023, Gyokeres has scored an impressive 66 goals in 67 appearances, establishing himself as one of Europe’s most in-demand strikers.
This situation has certainly captured the attention of Manchester United’s hierarchy. According to reports from The Independent, discussions have already taken place within the club regarding how Ruben Amorim could replicate his success at Sporting by making a similar impact on Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee. The idea is that Amorim, known for his ability to develop players, could be the key to unlocking the potential of these two young forwards, who have struggled to find consistent form at Old Trafford.
In fact, both Hojlund and Zirkzee have even been mentioned in recent talks with the incoming manager. This suggests that Amorim’s approach and ability to work with underperforming players are highly valued at Manchester United as the club looks to get the best out of its current squad. With Amorim poised to take charge soon, the expectation is that he will bring a fresh perspective and guidance that could help both players get back on track and contribute more effectively to the team’s success.
Meanwhile, Ruud van Nistelrooy is getting ready to manage the team for the last time before Amorim officially takes over on Monday. The Dutchman has been in charge of the interim since Ten Hag’s dismissal.
Amorim’s Arrival Casts Doubt on Van Nistelrooy’s Future at Manchester United
As Amorim is expected to bring his Sporting coaching staff to Manchester, it’s uncertain whether Van Nistelrooy has a long-term future at the club he returned to as a coach in the summer.
Speaking before Sunday’s match against Leicester, the 48-year-old former striker said, “First of all, it was a special period – it is still, of course.
“I called it an important period because I think it was important to get through the four games as good as we could. I think we’ve done very well so far. The players have reacted very well in the games.
“Obviously the focus now is to build on that and show that on Sunday with a big game ahead and a massive three points that are there to win. I don’t know if it will be very emotional. I take it very pragmatically as well, although I am proud to be able to fulfill this.
“We’ll see how I feel on Sunday and other than that, there’s not much more news than yesterday evening.”
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