“Players are responding”: Ex-United coach hails Amorim as he credits his “crocodile skin” for team’s drastic turnaround

Former Manchester United coach Benni McCarthy has praised Ruben Amorim’s resilience, crediting it for the club’s improved fortunes over the past two months. United enjoying uptick in form Amorim endured a troubled spell upon his arrival as Erik ten Hag’s replacement in November last year. He led United to a woeful 15th-place finish in the Premier League while also losing the Europa League final to Tottenham Hotspur. Amorim endured a patchy start to the 2025/26 campaign and at one point, it appeared like he was at genuine risk of losing his job. However, co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe came out and publicly expressed his support. Ratcliffe also declared that Amorim would be handed at least three years to try and turn things around at Old Trafford. United have since lost only once in their last nine Premier League games, a marked improvement in results. Last night’s 4-1 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers catapulted the Red Devils to sixth place in the Premier League table and one point adrift of the final guaranteed Champions League spot. McCarthy spoke to Sporty TV and lauded Amorim’s “crocodile skin” for United’s turnaround. McCarthy praises Amorim McCarthy, who served under Erik ten Hag before his exit in June 2024, told the news outlet [as quoted by A Bola], “You know, I felt very sorry for him, because he arrived at United at a very difficult time… new ownership, new change of guard.” “The team wasn’t playing at the level it should have been, but he arrived with a clear plan. This was what he wanted to achieve, and he remained true to his philosophy.” “I mean, everyone criticised him, and it’s not easy to be in that position when you’re being criticised, and the whole world is watching and judging.” The Kenya national team boss continued, “They’ll never get it right; the team isn’t good, but he was probably one of the only people who believed in himself so much. He turned things around, you know, and he has a strong character. He must have crocodile skin to be strong and stick to his philosophy.” “He has also made the players believe that what he is doing is right because the players are responding, and they are winning games. He beat Liverpool, he beat Chelsea, I’m happy with that. It’s good progress. So, I’m looking forward to seeing Ruben Amorim’s revolution in the near future.” United return to action on Monday, December 15, when they host Bournemouth. Kick-off is at 8pm. Featured image Warren Little via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!