Manchester United's leadership are preparing for crucial discussions with manager Ruben Amorim over the forthcoming international break, following Wednesday evening's shocking penalty shootout defeat to League Two side Grimsby Town in the Carabao Cup.
The embarrassing exit from Blundell Park has intensified scrutiny on the Portuguese manager, who has overseen more than £200million in summer transfers yet continues to struggle for results.
The 40-year-old coach, who previously questioned his suitability for the role in January and offered to waive compensation in May if deemed unsuitable, expressed renewed uncertainty about his position following the cup elimination.
His post-match remarks suggested fundamental issues within the squad that require immediate attention.
Ruben Amorim was left in disbelief watching his side
|REUTERS
Amorim delivered pointed criticism after the defeat, stating: "I think the players spoke really loudly about what they want today," implying resistance to his tactical system.
The manager described the result as "the limit" and suggested significant changes were necessary, adding: "Something has to change, and you're not going to change 22 players again."
His comments indicated forthcoming decisions would be made after Saturday's fixture against Burnley at Old Trafford, with the international break providing time for reflection.
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"It's hard to face everything. We move to the next game, then we have time to decide things," Amorim stated, hinting at potential upheaval within the club's structure or approach.
The Portuguese tactician faces mounting scrutiny, having secured victory in merely seven of his 29 Premier League matches since taking charge at Old Trafford.
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Ruben Amorim is now set for crunch talks with the the board about his future
|REUTERS
Despite the substantial financial backing this summer, United remain without a league win after two matches this season, adding urgency to Saturday's encounter with Burnley.
Amorim demonstrated his commitment by arriving at Carrington at 7am on Thursday, merely six hours after the team coach returned from Cleethorpes, to begin preparations for the weekend fixture.
The manager must deliver United's first Premier League triumph of the campaign at the third attempt, with pressure intensifying following the midweek cup humiliation against lower-league opposition.
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Some squad members currently on loan are reportedly speculating about whether their Manchester United careers might extend beyond Amorim's tenure at the club.
This uncertainty among peripheral players reflects the broader instability surrounding the manager's position, with Monday's transfer deadline approaching.
Despite the speculation and Amorim's emotional post-match reaction, Old Trafford insiders maintain that no managerial change is being considered this early in the campaign.
Ruben Amorim has only won seven of his 29 matches in charge of Manchester United
|REUTERS
Club sources suggest the Portuguese coach's comments were driven by frustration rather than representing any concrete plans, with officials believing emotions overwhelmed him at Blundell Park.
They anticipate Amorim will provide greater clarity during Friday's scheduled pre-match press conference at Carrington ahead of the crucial Burnley fixture.