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The encouraging 2-2 draw at Liverpool has sparked fresh optimism among Manchester United faithful, with growing comparisons between Ruben Amorim's rebuilding project and Mikel Arteta's successful transformation at Arsenal. Despite United's current 13th position with just four wins from 12 matches, there are compelling indicators that Amorim is following a proven path to success.
Learning from Early Setbacks
Like Arteta's challenging beginnings at Arsenal in December 2019, where he managed just one victory in his first eight league games, Amorim has weathered his share of storms. While home losses to Nottingham Forest, Bournemouth, and Newcastle have tested faith, statement victories at Manchester City and a resilient display at Anfield mirror Arteta's early pattern of mixing disappointing results with crucial big-game performances.
Cultural Revolution in Progress
Both managers have demonstrated exceptional communication skills, setting clear expectations from the outset. Amorim's assertive stance that "you have to choose one way or another, I choose always 100 percent our way" resonates strongly with Arteta's initial focus on transforming Arsenal's club culture and energy. Their ability to articulate their vision has proven essential in implementing widespread changes.
Confronting Star Power
In a move reminiscent of Arteta's handling of Mesut Özil and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Amorim has shown similar resolve in addressing Marcus Rashford's situation. Despite Rashford's status as a homegrown talent and top earner, Amorim has prioritized team discipline and proper preparation above individual reputation.
Strategic Vision and Tactical Innovation
Amorim brings his signature 3-4-2-1 formation, refined through successful tenures at Casa Pia, Braga, and Sporting CP. While implementing this system demands significant squad restructuring, early progress is evident when adequate preparation time is available. Arteta's Arsenal journey demonstrates how tactical evolution combined with cultural transformation can yield sustainable success.
The £21 million investment in Amorim underscores United's commitment to comprehensive change, paralleling Arsenal's unwavering support of Arteta. While challenges lie ahead, the similarities with Arsenal's renaissance suggest United may be following a proven blueprint. As Arteta observed, "Every manager gets appointed for a reason... Sometimes it is to transform a football club. That is a totally different dimension of a job."
With time to implement his methodology and a clear roadmap for the future, Amorim appears well-positioned to emulate Arteta's success in transforming a struggling giant into a dominant force in both English and European football.
