NafisaManchester United Suffer Another Crushing Defeat Under Ruben Amorim as Nottingham Forest Triumph at Old Trafford
Manchester United endured their second successive defeat under new manager Ruben Amorim, falling 3-2 to Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford on Saturday evening. The loss compounds what has been a difficult start to Amorim’s reign, with only one point secured from his first three games in charge.
The Portuguese coach began his tenure with cautious optimism following a draw in his opening match, but back-to-back losses have quickly shifted the mood. A 2-0 midweek defeat at Arsenal was disappointing but understandable given the Gunners’ title aspirations. However, this latest collapse against Forest has left United fans questioning their side’s direction.
Forest Capitalise on United’s Frailties
Forest stunned the Old Trafford crowd just minutes into the game when Nikola Milenkovic headed them into the lead. United managed to equalise through Rasmus Højlund, providing brief hope of a turnaround. Yet, Forest regained control in the second half, with Chris Wood and Morgan Gibbs-White finding the net to give the visitors a 3-1 advantage.
Bruno Fernandes pulled one back for United, but it proved too little, too late. Forest’s goals were marked by defensive lapses and erratic goalkeeping, issues that continue to plague United this season.
Ben Thornley, speaking post-match, noted Amorim would be “deeply frustrated” with the manner of the goals conceded, describing United’s defensive effort as “self-inflicted wounds.”
Rio Ferdinand Slams United’s Display
Former United defender Rio Ferdinand didn’t hold back in his criticism, taking to social media to express his dismay. His one-word verdict, “Shambles,” encapsulated the mood of many fans.
This latest setback underlines the scale of the challenge facing Amorim. While a defeat at Arsenal could be excused, the lacklustre performance against Forest has raised serious concerns about United’s progress under their new manager.
Testing Weeks Ahead for Amorim
Amorim is still adapting to his new squad, but time is a luxury he might not have. Former midfielder Owen Hargreaves suggested Amorim made a key mistake in substituting Bruno Fernandes for Mason Mount, a decision that failed to spark a comeback.
United now face a daunting schedule. Their Europa League hopes hinge on Thursday’s clash with Viktoria Plzeň, followed by the Manchester derby and an EFL Cup quarter-final against Tottenham. Bournemouth awaits before Christmas, with Wolverhampton Wanderers on Boxing Day.
Amorim faces a crucial run of fixtures that could define his early tenure. With mounting pressure, a response is essential if he is to steady the ship before the festive period.
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