Manchester United told to swerve Ruben Amorim replacement – ‘I’d be concerned’ | Football | Sport
Former Arsenal midfielder Paul Merson has issued a stark warning to Manchester United against appointing Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner should Ruben Amorim be sacked any time soon. Amorim finds himself under mounting pressure following a dismal start to the campaign. The Red Devils have managed just two wins – a chaotic encounter against Burnley and a fortnight ago against Chelsea when the visitors played with 10 men for much of the match.
Saturday’s crushing loss to Brentford has intensified the heat on the United chief, with numerous reports claiming Amorim could be shown the door. Whilst the manager remains in his post for now, doubts persist over his future should United stumble against Sunderland this weekend. Several candidates have been touted for the United hotseat if Amorim departs, with Glasner among those mentioned after his remarkable work at Palace.
The Austrian has become a fans’ favourite following his guidance of the Eagles to FA Cup glory last term, whilst they remain the sole undefeated side in the Premier League.
Nevertheless, penning his Sky Sports column, Merson insists Glasner would be the wrong choice for United. “He’s a brilliant manager,” the pundit acknowledged.
“He doesn’t get too up and doesn’t get too down. It’s very impressive. He’s put a team together and they are all very comfortable in their positions. Everyone knows their job in the team.
“Let’s say Ruben Amorim was manager at Palace now, he’d have half a chance of being a success. Palace have the players to play three at the back.
“They have the attributes in their squad to play in that system. For me, that’s why I’d be concerned about Glasner going to Man United.
“He’s a three-at-the-back man and it is being proven that it is a system that just doesn’t fit the players at Man United. Glasner is not a good fit for Man United.
“Of course, I’m sure he’d be adaptable, and he’s proven with how he handles the players, but the system he uses is just all wrong for United. Amorim can tell you that.”
Should Glasner not be in the running, other potential candidates for the United position include former England boss Gareth Southgate, ex-Barcelona chief Xavi and Bournemouth’s Andoni Iraola.
Amorim is scheduled to address the press on Friday before the encounter with Sunderland.
