Despite scoring after just 81 seconds, thanks to an excellent cross from youngster Amad Diallo, United were not able to capitalise. Ipswich certainly fought hard and deserved to come away from the game with something, and the Tractor Boys manager was full of nothing but praise for his side’s performance. However, they will be disappointed to still be in search of an elusive first home victory in the Premier League, as Kieran Mckenna alluded to in the post-match interview. Some crucial saves from Man of the Match Andre Onana made sure of this.
Notwithstanding Ed Sheeran’s disruptions in the post-match interview, Amorim was sure to support his new side, stating that “They are really trying and they want this.” However, the 39-year-old did admit that the team has a significant amount of work ahead of them. Patience will certainly be necessary amongst fans in the coming weeks as the new coach begins to instil his style and philosophy.
Ex-player and pundit Roy Keane was critical of the attacking threat, or lack thereof, of Man Utd, which has been a reoccurring problem for the Reds. This is certainly something Amorim will be focused on changing and will be on the forefront of his mind with the January transfer window just around the corner.
Viktor Gyökeres could well be the answer to this long-lasting problem for United as rumours of the Swede’s Manchester-bound transfer emerge. The 26-year-old is an obvious solution to United’s crisis, especially having already been managed by Amorim at Sporting CP.
That relegation-fighters Ipswich were granted 11 attempts on goal does not exactly advocate for United’s defensive capabilities either. This will be another key focus of the new coach going forward, with rumours of potential wing-back signings Rayan Ait-Nouri of Wolves and Geovany Quenda of Sporting CP circulating.
Ultimately, Ruben Amorim has a colossal job to do in resurrecting Manchester United’s season after one of their poorest starts in memory. Although he couldn’t manage an instant turnaround on his debut, with a fast-approaching transfer window and time to work with his new squad, we shall have to wait and see if he takes them to dizzy new heights or dismal depths.