Manchester United triumphed 3-2 over Bodo/Glimt, but defensive flaws remain under new manager Ruben Amorim.
Ruben Amorim’s first taste of victory as Manchester United’s manager was far from a flawless one, as his side scraped past Bodo/Glimt 3-2 in a chaotic encounter at Old Trafford. Despite a double from Rasmus Hojlund, the match highlighted familiar issues that plagued the club under previous management, leaving Amorim with plenty to ponder as he looks to stamp his authority on the team.
The scene was set in the iconic stadium, with a banner in the Stretford End reading “Bem vindo a casa” — “Welcome home” — in Amorim’s native Portuguese. However, less than half an hour into his first match, the new United boss might have wondered whether this greeting was a more ominous warning than a warm embrace. His side were 2-1 down to Bodo/Glimt, a team from Norway with no European pedigree to speak of, and United’s defensive vulnerabilities were on full display. The early signs were reminiscent of the self-destructive streak that characterised Erik ten Hag’s final days in charge, as United conceded twice in quick succession, looking anything but a well-drilled, disciplined outfit.
Yet, as has often been the case at Old Trafford, United’s attacking firepower made the difference. Hojlund, the club’s summer signing, was the hero, scoring two goals to ensure the victory. His first, a clinical finish following a well-executed team move, brought the team level after they had fallen behind. His second came with just minutes remaining, as he pounced on a rebound to give Amorim his first win in charge.
Despite the three points, it was far from a convincing performance. While the victory will bring some relief to Amorim, the defensive lapses and disorganisation that led to Bodo/Glimt’s goals raised familiar concerns. United’s inability to manage the game and maintain control, especially against a team they were expected to dominate, will require urgent attention. Amorim’s tactical acumen will be tested in the coming weeks as he seeks to mould a squad that has too often looked fragile both in attack and defence.
After the final whistle, Amorim reflected on the night’s events. “Half of the stadium doesn’t know me, I came from Portugal and I did nothing for this club. Yet the way they make me feel at home is special,” he said. “I felt I am not alone now, I am one of them.”
The manager will be hoping that, with time, he can instil more stability and consistency in his team. While the victory was necessary, United’s issues are far from resolved, and the chaotic nature of the game highlighted the adaptability Amorim will need to succeed in what promises to be a challenging journey at one of the world’s biggest clubs.
