Predictions ahead of Ruben Amorim’s first Man Utd game, verdict on Champions League hopes in 2024/25

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Ruben Amorim is less than 48 hours away from kickstarting his spell as Manchester United’s interim head coach.

After Ruud Van Nistelrooy’s impressive four-game stint at Manchester United, which included the Red Devils’ 3-0 win over Leicester City, Ruben Amorim has been training with his team ahead of beginning his spell as head coach.

With the season not even halfway through yet, there is plenty of time for Amorim to impose his style on the United squad and make a second half of the season push for UEFA Champions League football.

So, with that in mind, the United in Focus writers have predicted how things could pan out around Carrington for Amorim for the remainder of the 2024/25 campaign.

How will Ruben Amorim’s first game and few weeks as Man United head coach go?

Dan Coombs: A repeat of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s first Manchester United match.

“I am optimistic about United again. Ruben Amorim seems like a breath of fresh air, he looks like a natural in the role, and generally speaking, I think he will do just great. Specifically around the first game, I’m expecting a win – but it doesn’t help that Ipswich have finally got a win under their belts.

“This could be similar to Solskjaer’s first game against Cardiff, where the team just looks completely different and scores four or five goals.

“There will be tough challenges ahead, Arsenal, City, Tottenham, Forest and Wolves are among the teams we face in December, and just on a probability basis, we don’t win them all – but I’m here for the ride.”

Jonny Maze: A quiet confidence that United will start with two wins from two

“A baptism of fire awaits Ruben Amorim over the next month or so, but I cannot help but be quietly confident about our chances. Ipswich and Everton are two winnable games which should give the new head coach a chance to build some momentum before the tougher games against Arsenal and City.

“In the eight games between now and the new year, I think picking up 16 points or so would be a success, but really it is more important that he implements his style for long-term success.”

Olly Dawes: Ipswich could be a banana skin for Amorim

The first few games offer a chance to build some early momentum; Ipswich Town could be a banana skin, especially after their win at Tottenham Hotspur, but that is still their only win of the season whilst home games against Bodo/Glimt and Everton are certainly winnable.

The trip to Arsenal will provide a real test but Amorim has frustrated the Gunners in the Europa League in the past – why not do it again with United?

We can’t ignore the looming clash with Manchester City, which has been a trying afternoon for United fans in recent years and could provide problems for Amorim – even after smashing City with Sporting in the Champions League.

The home fixtures look winnable for United ahead of New Year and I would just love to see the old magic formula – win the home games and pick up a few points on the road to really kickstart the Amorim era.

Sean Fisher: It will take time for United to adapt to 3-4-3

“I’m trying not to get too carried away but there are plenty of promising signs before a ball has even been kicked. A trip to Ipswich Town should not be underestimated as an easy game for Amorim’s debut.

“Adjusting to the 3-4-3 system will be a big learning curve with plenty of ups and downs along the way but United can ride the new manager buzz to pick up some good results in the first month.”

Vatsal Gupta: A clear identity is more important for Ruben Amorim

“Excited! We’ve all been here before whenever a new manager arrives but the debut of Erik ten Hag leaves some scars. United face Ipswich at the best moment of their season so it will be much harder than most would have you believe.

“Some might say that Amorim HAS to win his first game but I think, as he promised, as long as there’s a semblance of identity and something to build towards, I don’t mind what happens to the scoreline. Having said that, please win, if only to get that first one under the belt.”

Shaun Webbley: Imperative United claim victory to kickstart Amorim’s tenure

“This season has been anything but exciting but with Ruben Amorim at the helm, it finally seems we can get excited about the Red Devils again. An away trip to a newly promoted side will never be a simple test plus the added pressure of facing Kieran McKenna, a former assistant to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, is something we can’t ignore.

“With key players like Kobbie Mainoo and Leny Yoro potentially returning for the Red Devils, a win should be expected of Amorim. As for the weeks ahead, there are certainly some tough tests to come for Amorim but if United can start with three wins from three, then momentum could grow within the camp.”

What should Manchester United fans expect from 2025?

Dan Coombs: A cup victory would be key for Ruben Amorim

“While 13th looks awful – we were only four points behind third place coming into the weekend, it’s crazy. If we can come out of next month still four points off third – we will be in a far better position. The game away at Spurs in the cup is the one Amorim has to win.

“In terms of season objectives, top four is still achievable but it depends what shape we are in heading into 2025 and how next month goes. Top four and winning the Europa League and/or any cup, I’d snap your hand off right now.”

Jonny Maze: Top six finish would be a success for Ruben Amorim

“2025 felt so far away when Erik ten Hag was sacked but now it is worryingly close. In the first calendar year under Amorim, I think finishing in the top six would be a success – considering where we are right now – and also solid cup runs with the Europa League one tournament we should be challenging for.

“However, I am more excited for the 2025/26 season when we should be seeing the real United under Amorim.”

Olly Dawes: A United team fans can be proud of is key

“A top-four finish would, of course, be the dream, but this isn’t just about results. Seeing the signs of a United team we can be proud of and actually be excited to watch would really provide an exciting start to the Amorim era.

“We will see new tactical ideas, possibly a change of formation under Amorim, and whilst the performances are unlikely to be perfect so early into his reign, we want to see some signs of progress.

“This will take time but Amorim provides United fans with real hope heading into 2025 and with the right backing from Ineos, 2025 could be the year United really start to move back towards the top.”

Sean Fisher: A top-four finish is not beyond the realms of possibility

“Don’t rule out a top-four finish. Yes, United are currently 13th but they are only four points off third. United can fly up the table if they hit good form ahead of the hectic winter schedule.

“It is a big ask but a trophy is certainly within reach too. United are in the last eight of the Carabao Cup and the Europa League format means we are still very much in play.”

Vatsal Gupta: Europa League qualification would be a success

“Before Ruud van Nistelrooy’s four games, it would have been “survive and finish the season with minimum embarrassment”. Now, United are still 13th but only four points off third so the season is not a write-off.

“I still don’t think this team, in its evolution phase, will finish in the top four but Braga has shown Amorim brings instant improvements as well. Europa League qualification along with a deep run in this season’s edition of the same would be a successful season if the team starts showing an identity.”

Shaun Webbley: A deep run in the Europa League would be a success

“It’s hard to say what would be successful for Amorim considering just a month ago, things were certainly looking bleak at Old Trafford under Erik ten Hag. However, the interim spell under Van Nistelrooy has turned things around.

“United are palpably close to the Champions League spots despite the horrendous start to the campaign but it is important to be realistic. A top six finish and a deep run in the UEFA Europa League, or maybe even winning the competition, would be more than good enough for Amorim.”