Amorim Faces Crucial Sunderland Test Amid Scrutiny

Manchester United sit 14th in the Premier League with seven points from six games, and Ruben Amorim faces a defining showdown against newly promoted Sunderland this weekend that could shape his future at Old Trafford. Amorim's overall United record is 34 points from 33 Premier League matches, and a run of three defeats this season has intensified scrutiny from co-owners Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the Glazers; reports say another loss could "severely test" their patience and that a dismissal within a year would cost about £12m. Commentators and former staff say the club is fractured on and off the pitch, and reports point to roughly a £63m fall in player market value, including Tyrell Malacia's drop from about £15.7m to £7m. The turmoil follows a period of managerial instability and high turnover costs (reportedly about £69.8m in dismissals since Sir Alex Ferguson retired), with Amorim the club's sixth permanent manager in that span. Amorim has defended his preferred 3-4-2/3 system, insisted he will not quit, and warned against media narratives affecting his players.