Manchester United were stunned by League Two side Grimsby Town in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday night when boss Ruben Amorim apologised to supporters at Blundell Park after an early exit. There are certain commentors on the Manchester Evening News comment section who believe Amorim’s stay at the club may not be very long judging by the mediocre performances from the side.
Goalkeeper Andre Onana had conceded twice in quick succession in the first half, so Amorim brought on some first-choice starters in the second half in a bid at a comeback. Bryan Mbeumo and Harry Maguire scored for United to stay in the game, but a marathon penalty shootout ended in defeat for the away side.
Having no European football this season means the only real possibility now of United fighting for a trophy is the FA Cup.
What happened? Asked Amorim: “Everything. We began in a bad manner, we were not even in the game. We had to perform a lot better. I only can apologise to our fans.
“My players were very specific today about what they want. I think it is easy for you to understand. Let’s consider our next game, then at the international break we can reassess.”
Some were frustrated with both the game itself and what is seen as a failure to improve in one of the club’s toughest seasons in recent years. One such user was Heehee123, whose comment was: “I’m not asking for Ruben to be sacked, but it’s got to improve sharpish.” Another, Yorkie53, stated: “Time to go, Ruben. At the end of it all, a gaffer’s living is predicated upon results and performances. It does not apply in Europe, in the Premier League, or even in a League Cup – we are inevitably outnumbered in midfield. Let alone the owners, I reckon they won’t send him packing because it would look bad for themselves. Any other gaffer would already be gone.”
Xabia1 wrote: “I’m out of things to believe in. Get rid of him and start again. Do what it takes to convince Garno and Mainoo not to depart. This arrangement just doesn’t work.”
John198 replied: “Every team we’ve played for since Amorim arrived appears better organised and coached. There is not a player at United comfortable in this system. Amorim is not a good manager in my opinion. Good managers are able to adapt to the game and to what you possess. Amorim is unable to – he keeps attempting to force fit players in roles in which they are not suited in an effort to make his system a success. He needs to leave; he should show some integrity and resign.”
Seanguitar wrote: “Sir Alex Ferguson went three and a half years before he won anything but at least you knew you were making progress in the side. Amorim seems to be taking a step backwards. Soundings on Grimsby Town for enlightening everyone about just how low United have sunk.”
