Ruben Amorim’s Manchester United Future Hinges on Crucial Five-Game Gauntlet

The pressure is mounting on Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim as the
Red Devils face a challenging five-game Premier League stretch that could
ultimately decide his fate at Old Trafford. With a dismal record of just
eight wins from 31 league outings, and four of those against newly-promoted
sides, the Portuguese coach desperately needs a turnaround.

Despite significant summer investment to bolster the squad, particularly
the attacking line, Amorim’s tactical rigidity and perceived lack of a
viable midfield pivot continue to draw criticism. The absence of European
football and domestic cup action until January means a lighter schedule,
but the upcoming fixtures are far from straightforward.

As
speculation
mounts regarding his job security, Sports Illustrated evaluates the
difficulty of Manchester United’s next five Premier League encounters.

5. Sunderland (H) – October 4

Difficulty Rating: 6/10

While a home fixture against newly-promoted Sunderland might seem like a
respite, there are no easy games for Amorim’s United. The Black Cats have
enjoyed a surprisingly sturdy start to their 2025–26 campaign under Regis
Le Bris, showcasing physicality, robustness, and dangerous attacking
outlets. Old Trafford has become a hunting ground for visiting teams in
recent years, and Sunderland will undoubtedly fancy their chances of
adding to United’s woes. This fixture, deceptively, could be the most
perilous for Amorim.

4. Brentford (A) – September 27

Difficulty Rating: 7/10

Despite a summer exodus that many predicted would lead to a Brentford
collapse, Keith Andrews has done an admirable job in succeeding Thomas
Frank. The Bees remain a formidable opponent at the Gtech Community
Stadium, with Kevin Schade and Igor Thiago stepping up admirably. United
fans will vividly recall the humiliating 4-0 defeat under Erik ten Hag in
2022-23, and have since drawn and lost in west London. Amorim’s side will
need to exorcise some demons to secure a result against the plucky Bees.

3. Brighton & Hove Albion (H) – October 25

Difficulty Rating: 7.5/10

Fabian Húrzeler’s Brighton have endured a frustrating start, dropping
points against Fulham and Everton, but also stunning Manchester City. By
the time they visit Old Trafford on October 25, the table could look very
different. Brighton have a remarkable record at the Theatre of Dreams,
winning on their three previous visits. This fixture could be a defining
moment, and there’s a real possibility Amorim might not even be in the
dugout by then.

2. Chelsea (H) – September 20

Difficulty Rating: 8/10

Once a titanic clash, Manchester United vs. Chelsea now carries a tinge of
melancholy. While Chelsea under Enzo Maresca secured a fourth-place finish
last season and are looking to solidify their top-four status, a title
challenge seems beyond them. They possess undeniable quality, though their
injury situation is a concern. United have struggled against fellow ‘Big
Six’ opponents this season, but this is precisely the kind of fixture
where Amorim’s side showed flashes of brilliance last term. Despite their
underwhelming start, writing off United against the Blues this weekend
would be premature.

1. Liverpool (A) – October 19

Difficulty Rating: 10/10

United’s 2-2 draw at Anfield last season was arguably their most impressive
performance under Amorim, showcasing a rare snap and coherence. Harry
Maguire even missed a golden opportunity to snatch a late winner. It was
their best display at Liverpool’s fortress since Louis van Gaal’s era in
2016. However, Arne Slot’s Liverpool, despite a historic summer spend, are
still finding their rhythm. By the time United visit after the October
international break, Slot may have found his optimal balance. This fixture
could serve as the ultimate litmus test for Amorim, and if United’s struggles
against Chelsea, Brentford, and Sunderland persist, it might be the
perfect moment for the club to seek a new direction.

The next five games are not just about points; they are about Ruben
Amorim’s survival at Manchester United.