Manchester United’s new manager Ruben Amorim has already started to leave his mark on the team, and his efforts bore fruit in the most dramatic fashion during the Manchester derby on December 15, 2024. In a pulsating match at the Etihad Stadium, Amorim’s Red Devils secured a 2-1 victory over Manchester City, sending shockwaves across the Premier League. It was a performance filled with determination, tactical brilliance, and moments of magic, as United showed that they can compete with the best.
The victory was particularly significant given the dominance Manchester City has enjoyed in recent years. Known for their fluid attacking style under Pep Guardiola, City entered the match as favourites. They boasted a formidable squad, including the ever-dangerous Erling Haaland leading the line. However, Amorim’s tactical setup and his players’ execution turned the odds on their head.
From the first whistle, United played with a clear game plan. Defensively, the team was solid, with Harry Maguire delivering a commanding performance in a back-three formation. Maguire, often criticised in the past, seemed revitalised under Amorim’s system, where his strengths were maximised. Alongside Manuel Ugarte, who neutralised City’s midfield threats, United’s defensive line stood firm against relentless pressure.
City started brightly, as expected, dominating possession and probing United’s defence. Their persistence paid off in the 36th minute when Josko Gvardiol found the net with a powerful header from a well-delivered corner. At that point, it seemed like City would dictate the rest of the match. But United had other plans.
Amorim’s men refused to be rattled. Instead, they regrouped and began to find spaces on the counterattack. Amad Diallo, who has been one of United’s standout players recently, was a constant threat on the flanks. His pace and trickery troubled City’s defence throughout the match. Bruno Fernandes, ever the leader, orchestrated United’s attacks, ensuring his team maintained composure despite the early setback.
United’s equaliser came in the second half. A well-worked move saw Diallo cut in from the left and deliver a precise cross into the box. Marcus Rashford, who had been left out of recent games but returned to the starting lineup for this crucial fixture, met the cross with a clinical finish that left City goalkeeper Ederson with no chance. The goal was a testament to Rashford’s resilience and Amorim’s belief in giving players chances to prove themselves.
The winner came in the dying moments of the match, a dramatic conclusion that epitomised United’s fighting spirit. Bruno Fernandes, ever influential, sent a perfectly weighted pass through to Alejandro Garnacho, who had come off the bench. Garnacho’s strike was unstoppable, sending the away fans into raptures and sealing a memorable comeback victory for the Red Devils.
As the match wore on, City threw everything forward in search of an equaliser. Guardiola brought on more attacking players, and their relentless pressure tested United’s resolve. But Amorim’s team remained disciplined, closing down spaces and making crucial interceptions. The final whistle was met with scenes of jubilation from United’s players and fans, while the home crowd watched on in stunned silence.
Amorim’s decisions were key to this victory. His bold call to leave Alejandro Garnacho and Rashford out of the starting lineup in recent games had raised eyebrows, but it proved to be a masterstroke in motivating the players. Rashford, in particular, looked rejuvenated, his energy and determination evident throughout the match. Amorim’s faith in younger talents like Diallo and his tactical flexibility have already begun to pay dividends.
In his post-match interview, Amorim praised his team’s character and work ethic. He highlighted the importance of maintaining high standards on and off the pitch, saying, “The small details make a difference. It’s not just about what happens during the game, but also in training and how the players support each other.” His emphasis on a holistic approach to team-building seems to be resonating with the squad.
The result was more than just three points for United. It was a statement victory, showing that under Amorim’s guidance, the team is moving in the right direction. The win lifted United to a more respectable position in the league table and provided a much-needed morale boost for the players and fans alike. For City, it was a rare setback in their otherwise stellar campaign, but it served as a reminder that no team is invincible.
Amorim’s journey with Manchester United is still in its early days, but performances like this suggest a brighter future ahead. The players seem to have bought into his philosophy, and the results are beginning to reflect that. While there is still a long way to go, this victory over their city rivals will undoubtedly be remembered as a turning point.
As United fans celebrate this hard-fought win, the focus will now shift to the next set of fixtures. Consistency remains the key for Amorim’s side if they are to climb further up the table and challenge for silverware. But for now, the Red Devils can bask in the glory of a memorable derby victory, one that has reignited hope and belief at Old Trafford.
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4 Comments
Well deserved victory.
I hate to say but it seems Man City might have to settle for Europa next season…
Yes, Man United showed grit.
Thank you
It’s too early to judge in my opinion! “we listen, we don’t judge”