The appointment of Ruben Amorim has left Manchester United supporters excited about the future. However, this is an Ineos acquisition and must be held accountable regardless of the outcome.
Having arrived in the North West in February, the global manufacturer acquired a minority stake and breathed a sense of belief into a wounded fanbase.
Since then, they have constructed numerous decisions on and off the field. From making in-house staff redundant as part of a cost-cutting exercise to relieving Erik ten Hag of his duties a fortnight ago.
Petrochemicals billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his colleagues have made a mixed impression on the Old Trafford faithful. Undeniably, they have offered some hope following two decades of mistreatment.
However, they have come under scrutiny for various judgments – including removing European ticket collections and the controversial conclusion to sever ties with Sir Alex Ferguson in his ambassadorial role.
Logical supporters will appreciate that change can not occur overnight, and Amorim will require patience. That said, our trip to Ipswich marks the start of a calculated move that will inevitably be judged in points earned.
Ruben is very much an Ineos man
The arrival of the Portuguese tactician signalled a statement of intent from the new hierarchy.
Although Ten Hag was publicly backed, it was common knowledge that talks were ongoing with potential replacements, and his future was anything but assured in the North West.
Many names were linked with the role, from Thomas Tuchel to Gareth Southgate, with public discussions expressing doubts that the Dutchman was the man to take the team forward.
A lack of success post-Sir Alex has been mainly due to the lack of input from the club’s majority owners. Inevitably, Sir Jim used this point to retain the former Ajax boss, numerously stating that he is giving him time to improve under this footballing structure.
However, an unthinkable start to the campaign – statistically, the worst in Premier League history – led to a drastic shift in mentality.
In fairness to Dan Ashworth and co, the mid-season capture of Sporting’s favourite son has captivated the supporters and sent shockwaves across the continent.
However, summer indecision has left a lasting dissatisfaction with many, and the credibility of this ‘best-in-class’ setup is being questioned.
Whether Amorim is a success at United or not, this decision has stemmed from Ashworth and Jason Wilcox alongside Omar Berrada. He is very much an Ineos man.
The honeymoon period is over
By and large, the arrival of Ratcliffe and his backroom team have been welcomed despite the questionable decisions that have been made.
From those I have spent time with, the overriding emotion has been excitement, anticipation and hope for a return to a semblance of normality at the Theatre of Dreams.
The Stretford End is patient, and most are not expecting results overnight. In the same breath, the minority stakeholders have nowhere to hide regarding Amorim.
Should the former Sporting boss prove successful or not, it is at the hands of Ineos to ensure he has the best opportunity to thrive.
The 39-year-old boss begins his Manchester career with a trip to Ipswich Town on Sunday before two home meetings with Bodo/Glimt and Everton the following week.
How do you feel about Ineos and their time at Manchester United?
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