Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has acknowledged the club’s urgent need for on-pitch leadership as his side braces for a challenging Premier League showdown against league leaders Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday. The Red Devils, enduring a turbulent period, have not won at Anfield since 2016 and are coming off the back of humiliating 4-0 and 7-0 defeats in two of their last three visits.
Speaking ahead of the match, Amorim highlighted leadership issues within the squad, emphasizing the role of defender Harry Maguire, whose contract was recently extended until 2026. “We are starving for leaders on the pitch,” Amorim admitted. “I spoke with Harry this morning. He needs to improve as a player and as a leader. Despite his challenges, we need him a lot in this moment.”
Maguire, who joined United in 2019 for a then-world record fee for a defender, has seen his role diminish after losing the captaincy. Despite this, Amorim remains optimistic about his potential contribution.
United’s struggles under Amorim have been glaring, with four consecutive losses dropping them to 14th in the table and an early exit from the League Cup. Conversely, Liverpool, riding high under Jürgen Klopp, are six points clear at the top with a game in hand, closing in on United’s record of 20 top-flight titles.
The absence of key players further compounds United’s woes. Marcus Rashford, who has missed significant time this season, is out again due to illness. However, there is a glimmer of hope with Amad Diallo, whose performances have been a rare bright spot. The Ivorian is reportedly close to signing a new long-term deal at Old Trafford.
Despite the daunting odds, Amorim remains resolute. “In football, anything can happen in one game,” he stated. “Liverpool are the best team this year, but we need to focus on improving our performance and the simple things. With training, we can prepare and aim for a better outcome.”
The clash at Anfield marks a critical juncture for Manchester United as they seek to arrest their downward spiral against their fiercest rivals.
