Manchester United legend Gary Pallister has weighed in on the growing uncertainty surrounding manager Ruben Amorim, acknowledging that while he still supports the Portuguese tactician, results simply haven’t been good enough. With a daunting trip to Anfield on the horizon, Pallister admits the pressure is mounting — and if things don’t change soon, Amorim’s time at Old Trafford may be nearing its end.
Backed, But Under Pressure: Pallister Still Supports Amorim
Despite rising frustration among fans and pundits, former United defender Gary Pallister remains one of the few club icons still backing Ruben Amorim. Speaking exclusively to Football365, Pallister expressed his belief that Amorim deserves more time but acknowledged the situation is becoming increasingly difficult to justify.
“I don’t think it’s over,” Pallister said. “He’s under immense pressure, but we can’t just keep sacking managers. We need stability. That said, if the results don’t improve, then we know what comes next — that’s the reality of football.”
Amorim, who arrived at Manchester United with high expectations, has struggled to make a meaningful impact. After a disappointing 15th-place finish last season and a sluggish start to the current campaign, questions are being asked about his tactical approach and ability to adapt.
Tactical Stubbornness Raising Concerns
One of the key criticisms of Amorim has been his unwillingness to deviate from his preferred 3-4-3 formation, even when things aren’t going to plan. Pallister touched on this issue, emphasizing that tactical flexibility is crucial in today’s game.
“He’s sticking rigidly to the system, and that’s what everyone’s talking about,” the four-time Premier League champion said. “I’d like to see more adaptability. If it’s clearly not working, then why not adjust during the game?”
Pallister warned that persisting with a one-dimensional strategy could lead to repeated mistakes. “Right now, it doesn’t look like there’s a plan B,” he added. “You can start with your system, sure, but if it’s failing, change it. Otherwise, you’re just going in circles.”
Anfield Looms Large: A Defining Moment for Amorim
Manchester United’s upcoming clash against Liverpool at Anfield could prove pivotal in Amorim’s tenure. The Red Devils haven’t won at the iconic ground in over ten years, and Pallister admits the stakes couldn’t be higher.
“Sunday’s game is huge,” he said. “So far, we’ve beaten a 10-man Chelsea and newly promoted Sunderland and Burnley — and all of that was at home. Now we’re facing a real test.”
Pallister warned that a poor performance against Jurgen Klopp’s high-flying Liverpool could crank up the pressure to unsustainable levels. “If we go there and get humiliated, then it’s going to be hard for Amorim to hold on. Let’s hope for something different, but it’s a massive ask.”
With mounting pressure and a critical fixture ahead, Ruben Amorim faces a defining moment in his Manchester United career. While Gary Pallister continues to advocate for patience and long-term thinking, even he admits that without improvement — particularly in tactical flexibility — change could soon become inevitable.
