Ruben Amorim and Arne Slot have faced significant challenges at Manchester United and Liverpool, respectively, with both clubs experiencing struggles that highlight the ongoing process of rebuilding. Manchester United, under Amorim, and Liverpool, with Slot at the helm, are grappling with issues of consistency and standards. In particular, the performances in their recent matchups against each other underscore the difficulties each manager faces in trying to stabilize their teams.
Despite a 2-1 victory over Liverpool in September 2022, both teams have seen a massive turnover of players, with several key figures—such as Jadon Sancho, Marcus Rashford, Anthonys Elanga, and Martial—falling out of favor. This has led to a sense of instability and frustration at Old Trafford, as United's rebuilding effort under Amorim contrasts sharply with the more gradual transformation under Erik ten Hag. Amorim's recent statements emphasize the importance of attitude and leadership, but it is clear that the team struggles to maintain this mindset week in and week out.
Amorim is right to be "mad" about the inconsistent performances from his players. After a disappointing draw, Bruno Fernandes’ comment about only caring about the Liverpool game revealed the lack of consistency in mentality within the squad. Amorim's main task is to instill the right “standards” in the team, as he knows that while one strong performance can offer hope, it cannot become the exception. His task now is to ensure the players maintain that intensity and focus consistently.
The Portuguese coach has made it clear that anyone showing complacency or dropping their standards will face repercussions. This sense of urgency and responsibility is vital if United is to move forward. The team’s poor position in the league, coupled with the fragile confidence of many players, makes this a particularly tough challenge for Amorim, who remains adamant that this is a turning point in his reign.
For Arne Slot, Liverpool’s recent struggles against Manchester United presented a different set of issues. The Reds were dragged into a chaotic, disorganized battle that did not reflect their usual high standards. Despite the team’s solid position at the top of the league, there are concerns about recent defensive lapses and the effectiveness of Slot’s game management. With key players like Trent Alexander-Arnold exposed under pressure, and the tactical decision to leave Luis Diaz and certain midfielders ineffective, Slot's typically strong in-game decisions faltered.
Liverpool's defensive weaknesses were evident, as they conceded 11 goals in their last six Premier League games—more than the eight they allowed in the previous 13. Slot will need to address these issues, particularly as his side struggles to maintain their earlier form. The team's inability to control the game against Manchester United despite their lead exposed a vulnerability that the manager must quickly rectify.
Trent Alexander-Arnold, usually a key figure for Liverpool, was notably ineffective against Manchester United, and his performance, alongside Curtis Jones, left much to be desired. Both players were dispossessed early in the game, and Alexander-Arnold, in particular, struggled under pressure. This performance, while not catastrophic, highlighted the growing concern over the team's defensive fragility and the potential impact of individual mistakes in high-stakes matches.
Slot, however, dismissed any concerns over Alexander-Arnold’s rumored links to Real Madrid, focusing instead on the task at hand—nullifying Manchester United’s threats. The Liverpool manager recognized the challenge of dealing with a potent attacking force but also noted that some tactical decisions, such as the positioning of Diogo Dalot, left Liverpool vulnerable to counter-attacks.
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