Sir Jim Ratcliffe looked on in despair from the stands on Sunday. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
Despite overseeing Manchester United’s worst start to a campaign in 33 years, Ruben Amorim retains the backing of INEOS – for now.
A 3-0 defeat in the Manchester derby left United 14th-placed in the Premier League table upon the culmination of matchweek four, having overseen two defeats, one win and one draw.
With no European action to account for, they are now preparing for the visit of Chelsea, who are yet to lose in their opening matches, on Saturday evening.
INEOS to give Amorim three games to save United career
Even this early in the season, every point dropped is now looking integral to how Amorim’s future could play out at Old Trafford.
David McDonnell of The Mirror has revealed that the United boss could well be relieved of his duties depending on the outcome of the next three fixtures. INEOS then plan to evaluate the situation, which may result in them parting ways with their chosen Erik ten Hag successor.
Ruben Amorim has three games to save his role as #mufc head coach, with five potential candidates identified: Oliver Glasner, Gareth Southgate, Marco Silva, Andoni Iraola, and Mauricio Pochettino [@DiscoMirror]
— utdreport (@utdreport) September 16, 2025
It was also claimed on Monday that Sir Jim Ratcliffe is confident the current crop of players at Amorim’s disposal is more than capable of securing Champions League qualification by May next year. Should they continue slipping further away from the top end of the table, changes will have to be made.
Why United’s co-owners are expecting quality results this campaign
INEOS shelled out £216 million to bolster Amorim’s ranks over the summer with four additions, including an entirely new frontline following the arrivals of Bryan Mbeumo, Benjamin Sesko and Matheus Cunha.
Deadline-day signing Senne Lammens was left out of the starting XI for the trip to the Etihad over the weekend but may be in line to make his maiden bow against Enzo Maresca’s Blues.
After Chelsea, United are away to Brentford and will then lock horns with newly-promoted Sunderland on October 4 – the final game before yet another international break. When club action resumes, it’s Liverpool at Anfield.
