Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim remains confident that his expensive forward line will soon start firing on all cylinders, despite the team's recent struggles to convert chances into goals. The club invested approximately £200 million in offensive reinforcements during the summer transfer window, acquiring forwards Benjamin Sesko, Matheus Cunha, and Bryan Mbeumo. This significant expenditure was a direct response to the team's attacking deficiencies from the previous season, where they only managed 44 Premier League goals, a tally surpassed by only three other clubs.
Amorim believes the new signings need time to gel and that the improved atmosphere at Old Trafford will contribute to their success. He emphasized the importance of timing in their arrivals, noting that they are joining the club "at a moment where the spirit is different, the place is different". He feels the positive environment creates a cycle of confidence and freedom for the players, ultimately leading to better performances. "When you feel the team is playing well, you get confident and you feel more free to play and if you feel more free to play, you are happier," he explained.
The new forward line showed glimpses of their potential in the season opener, with Cunha's dribbling and Mbeumo's runs creating renewed enthusiasm among the fans. Amorim described Sesko as "football obsessed" and expressed excitement about nurturing his development, envisioning him as United's striker for many years to come.
However, despite the optimism, the goals have yet to flow consistently. In a recent match against Fulham, Manchester United were held to a 1-1 draw, with the new forwards failing to find the net. United took the lead thanks to an own goal, but Fulham responded with a goal from substitute Emile Smith Rowe. This result has put Amorim under pressure, especially considering the investment made in the attacking players.
The manager also faces challenges in other areas of the squad. The goalkeeping situation remains uncertain, with neither Altay Bayindir nor André Onana establishing themselves as the clear first choice. There are also concerns about the midfield, with a lack of an aggressive ball-winner to support Bruno Fernandes in a deeper role. Furthermore, several players, including Alejandro Garnacho, Antony, Jadon Sancho and Tyrell Malacia, who have expressed their desire to leave the club, remain on the books, creating a difficult situation for both the players and the manager. Amorim stated that the club has tried to arrange moves for these players and that he is trying to focus on the players he believes will be part of the team's future.
Despite these challenges, Amorim remains confident that his attacking players will soon start delivering the goals expected of them. He believes in their quality and the positive environment he is creating at the club. However, he acknowledges that there is still work to be done to address the team's overall frailties and ensure consistent results.
