Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has highlighted the lack of leadership within his team as they prepare for a critical match against Premier League leaders Liverpool on Sunday.
The Red Devils, currently struggling in 14th place, face a daunting task at Anfield against a Liverpool side that sits comfortably at the top of the table.
Amorim has called for more from his squad, especially defender Harry Maguire, whose contract was recently extended until 2026.
Speaking on Friday, Amorim stated, “I spoke with him (Maguire) this morning and I told him he has to improve on the pitch, we need him a lot. Also, he has to improve as a leader. We all know the situation that he had here, but we need him a lot in this moment.”
Maguire, who joined United in 2019, has seen his role diminish after losing the captaincy. Yet Amorim insists his leadership is essential, saying, “When you look at our team we are starving for leaders on the pitch. He is a leader.”
Adding to United’s woes, they’ve lost four consecutive games and recently exited the League Cup. Liverpool, by contrast, are dominating the league, six points clear at the top and closing in on United’s record of 20 league titles.
Despite the stark contrast, Amorim remains hopeful, citing rare training time as a potential boost. “In football, in one game anything can happen,” he said. “We have to improve the simple things.”
United will welcome back captain Bruno Fernandes after his suspension, but Marcus Rashford remains sidelined due to illness. Young talent Amad Diallo has been a rare bright spot, with Amorim confirming the Ivorian is close to signing a new long-term deal.
