Liverpool icon Jamie Carragher has set the bar high for new Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim as he gears up for his first match at the helm.
Appointed in the same week Erik ten Hag was shown the door by INEOS, Amorim had to wait until November 11 to leave Sporting and take over at Old Trafford due to an agreement with the Portuguese club.
With two weeks of solid preparation under his belt, Amorim is now ready to lead United against Ipswich Town on Sunday. After a dismal start to their Premier League campaign, United are desperate for a turnaround, and Carragher is confident that Amorim can be the catalyst they need.
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"It can take years for a manager to perfect his football ideals, but the best require only one game to show the world what they are," Carragher penned in his Telegraph column.
"That is why Ruben Amorim's introduction as Manchester United manager is the most eagerly anticipated Premier League debut in years.
"I cannot wait to see United take on Ipswich Town on Sunday afternoon because we are about to witness one of the most radical mid-season changes in formation and strategy ever imposed by one of the elite clubs.
"Facing the side fourth from bottom might seem a gentle introduction to English football for Amorim but my suspicion is it will be much trickier than many think."
"Amorim's introduction of the 3-4-3 that was so successful at Sporting Lisbon means United's players will be adapting to an entirely new approach. Longer-term, we can expect a significant improvement in results and performances.
"Short-term, it is natural to expect teething problems."
Following a stint at Portman Road, Amorim is set to experience a rousing welcome at Old Trafford during his first Europa League match as Bodo/Glimt rolls into town. His inaugural Premier League home game will see Everton visit the Theatre of Dreams a week on Sunday.
