Man United disappointing end to the 2024–2025 season has reignited fierce debates over the managerial position at Old Trafford. Brought in as a supposed savior, Ruben Amorim failed to deliver the success many fans had hoped for. With a crushing 0-1 defeat against Tottenham Hotspur in the UEFA Europa League final and a confirmed absence from European competitions next season, Amorim’s future is now under serious scrutiny.
But аmіdѕt thе сrіtісіѕm, one rеѕресtеd voice hаѕ ѕtерреd forward tо urgе rеѕtrаіnt: club lеgеnd Edwіn van dеr Sаr. Sреаkіng to BBC Rаdіо 5 Lіvе fоllоwіng Unіtеd’ѕ final lоѕѕ, Vаn dеr Sаr defended Amorim and wаrnеd аgаіnѕt another hаѕtу mаnаgеrіаl dіѕmіѕѕаl, ѕtrеѕѕіng thе importance оf lоng-tеrm vision and сlub stability.
Van der Sar: “Man United Needs a Clear Direction, Not Constant Changes”
According to Van der Sar, United’s tendency to frequently change managers has done more harm than good over the years. The Dutch legend, who retired 14 years ago, pointed out the lack of continuity at the club since Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure, a factor he believes has significantly hindered the club’s ability to build a sustainable, successful system.
“It’s been 14 years since I retired,” Van der Sar said, “and in that time, Manchester United has cycled through numerous managers and coaching staff. While some have brought silverware, long-term success requires sticking with a manager and a clear footballing philosophy.”
He emphasized that without a coherent strategy and patience, even the most talented managers will struggle to succeed.
Amorim’s Europa League Loss Not Enough to Justify Sacking, Says Van der Sar
Ruben Amorim’s failure to secure the Europa League trophy — which could have salvaged a poor season — was certainly a bitter blow. However, Van der Sar was quick to point out that a single result, no matter how painful, should not determine a coach’s future.
“The final itself wasn’t the best match,” he admitted. “But finals are unique—winning one can completely shift the narrative of a season. Just look at Tottenham; they turned things around with one win.”
Van der Sar believes that decisions regarding Amorim should be based on a broader evaluation, not just a one-off defeat.
Structural Issues Within United Still Unresolved
Beyond coaching, Van der Sar highlighted deeper problems that continue to plague Manchester United, particularly the uncertainty surrounding the club’s ownership and internal leadership structure. He believes these unresolved issues pose a bigger threat to progress than Amorim’s performance.
“Right now, the hierarchy is still not completely settled. There’s the Glazers and then the 25% stake owned by Sir Jim Ratcliffe. That kind of split ownership can create ambiguity in leadership and decision-making.”
He also pointed to the departure of the club’s sporting director just months after taking the job — another sign of organizational instability.
“If the club truly wants to return to its former glory, it needs to define what it stands for, where it wants to go, and stick to that plan. In that context, changing the manager again would serve no real purpose.”
Time for Reflection, Not Reaction for Man United
While the pressure on Ruben Amorim continues to mount, Van der Sar’s comments serve as a sobering reminder that rebuilding a club like Manchester United is not an overnight task. With a young squad, evolving tactics, and internal restructuring still underway, perhaps the answer lies not in change—but in consistency, clarity, and commitment to a long-term project.
As fans voice their frustrations and pundits call for drastic moves, United’s boardroom now faces a crucial decision: will they follow the cycle of chaos, or finally break it by giving a manager the time and tools to truly transform the team?
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