Manchester United legend Bryan Robson has backed under-fire manager Ruben Amorim to be given three years to turn around the club's fortunes. The former captain's public support comes as United endure their worst start to a season in 33 years.
Amorim arrived at Old Trafford in November from Sporting Lisbon amid high expectations but has struggled to improve the team's performances. United currently sit 15th in the Premier League and missed out on European competition after losing the Europa League final to Tottenham.
Season of struggles
The Portuguese manager has overseen just one Premier League victory this season - against newly promoted Burnley. The Red Devils also suffered an embarrassing Carabao Cup exit at the hands of League Two side Grimsby Town.
Despite a £214 million summer transfer window that brought in players like Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford and Matheus Cunha from Wolves, results have not improved. United also signed Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig and Patrick Dorgu from Lecce as Amorim looked to build a squad suited to his 3-4-3 formation.
Legend's patience plea
Robson believes the constant managerial changes since Sir Alex Ferguson's retirement in 2013 have hindered progress. "We have changed managers that many times," Robson told Telegraph Sport. "I feel you have to stick and say, 'No, we are not sacking the manager. We are not blaming'."
The former England midfielder argues that substantial investment requires time to bear fruit. "When you have a little bit of money and the club are going to allow you to change your squad, you need three years to get the team right," he said.
Robson also criticised recent recruitment strategy, suggesting United should target experienced Premier League players rather than unproven talents from other leagues. "When I was in management, I believed that if you bought average players you got an average team," he added.
Amorim stands firm
The 40-year-old manager remains defiant about his tactical approach despite mounting pressure. Amorim met with co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe on Thursday but showed no signs of wavering from his philosophy.
"No, no, no," Amorim said when asked about changing his system. "Not even the Pope will change me. This is my job. This is my responsibility. This is my life."
Manchester Evening News reports that fan opinion remains divided, with some supporters calling for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's return while others echo Robson's call for patience. United face Chelsea on Saturday afternoon in what represents another crucial test of Amorim's methods.
Sources used: "Daily Mail", "Manchester Evening News", "Independent", "Telegraph Sport" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
