The clash between Manchester United and Liverpool comes at a delicate moment for Ruben Amorim, whose future as manager of the Red Devils has become a growing topic of debate. Despite the public backing of co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the reality of English football is that results rule — and a defeat at Anfield could significantly increase the pressure on the Portuguese coach.

Support with an expiration date

Ratcliffe stated last week that Amorim needs “three years to build a solid project,” a comment that sounded like a vote of confidence. However, even the coach himself has admitted that time is a luxury few enjoy at a club like Manchester United. “I know Jim supports me and tells me that all the time, but we all know football doesn’t work like that. The most important thing is always the next game,” said the Portuguese manager.

Amorim explained that the pressure he puts on himself is even greater than that from the board or the fans. “I understand this takes time, but I don’t want to think that way. I don’t want the club to believe we have time, because that creates comfort. At United, every week you have to win,” he said, aware that a defeat against Liverpool could alter the board’s plans.

The Portuguese coach has received backing not only from Ratcliffe but also from CEO Omar Berrada and sporting director Jason Wilcox, who have reiterated their support. Even so, Amorim acknowledges that long-term projects rarely survive a poor run of results at a club of United’s stature.

Liverpool ready to exploit United’s crisis

While Manchester United deals with uncertainty, Liverpool enters the match in high spirits despite their injury concerns. Manager Arne Slot confirmed that goalkeeper Alisson Becker remains sidelined with a hamstring injury and will miss this week’s and next week’s matches. In his place, Georgian keeper Giorgi Mamardashvili, formerly of Valencia, will continue to start for the Reds.

Slot hopes to keep the team’s momentum going after a strong run in both the Premier League and Europe, though he admitted that the absence of his starting goalkeeper complicates things. “He’s still not training and won’t be available this week. We hope to have him back before the match against Real Madrid,” explained the Dutchman.

The showdown between Liverpool and Manchester United promises to be more than just another clash between two giants. For Amorim, it could mark the fine line between the board’s patience and a crisis that might cost him his job. All or nothing — once again — in the Premier League.