The Athletic FC Podcast One year of Amorim: The good, the bad and "the worst Man United team in history"
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Nov 11, 2025 
Mark Critchley, a seasoned football journalist focused on Manchester United, and Oli Kay, a tactical analyst, dive into Ruben Amorim's tumultuous first year at the club. They explore the mixed reception to his appointment, his initial structural changes, and the fallout from a punishing loss to Brighton. The panel discusses Amorim’s brutal honesty, contrasting his communication style with more calculated managers. They also touch on the need for consistency and the significance of upcoming fixtures in assessing the team's direction amidst a challenging rebuild.
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Brighton Outburst Marked A Watershed
- After a poor Brighton display Amorim called the squad "maybe the worst team in United's history" and smashed a TV in the dressing room.
- That outburst marked a watershed and underscored how quickly things fell apart early on.
Leadership Backed A Long-Term Project
- United kept faith with Amorim as a long-term rebuild despite poor early results because leadership had personally backed him.
- The club accepted short-term pain in pursuit of a coherent project rather than immediate change.
Progress Exists, Consistency Missing
- Form and results have improved this season but inconsistency persists; United can beat anyone and lose to anyone.
- Transfers for attacking players and a calmer centre-back like Sean Lammers have helped, but balance issues remain.