Ruben Amorim approvingly watched footage of the disagreement between Rasmus Højlund and Amad Diallo. The two Manchester United attackers clashed during the away victory against Viktoria Plzen.
Amad’s decision to take matters into his own hands during Manchester United’s 2-1 victory over Viktoria Plzen drew the ire of teammate Rasmus Højlund and sparked a heated moment on the pitch.
With United pressing for a breakthrough, the Danish striker positioned himself in a dangerous area, expecting a well-timed pass from Amad. However, instead of playing the ball, Amad opted to continue dribbling, eventually running into trouble as the Czech defense swarmed him and regained possession.
Højlund, frustrated by the missed opportunity, immediately expressed his displeasure with animated arm gestures, signaling his frustration at Amad's decision-making. As play resumed, the two players crossed paths once again, with Højlund approaching Amad to discuss the situation. Their exchange, though brief, reflected the growing competitive spirit within the squad and underlined the high expectations set under Ruben Amorim's leadership.
The Portuguese manager, who took over from Erik ten Hag, observed the interaction with keen interest and later expressed his satisfaction with what unfolded. Speaking in his post-match comments, Amorim saw the confrontation not as a cause for concern but as a sign of progress and passion within the team. "This was perfect," he began, clearly pleased. "It’s a very, very good sign. These moments show me that the players care. We need to feel something about these situations. If you’re not invested, you don’t react like that."
Amorim elaborated on why such moments are valuable, likening them to family dynamics where tensions can flare but ultimately lead to growth and understanding. "We need to confront each other, just like in a family. There, you’re not afraid to fight with your brother, your father, or your mother because you care about them. That’s what I saw today a team that cares enough to hold each other accountable. For me, this is a very good sign. I actually think it’s healthy."
The United manager emphasized the importance of player-driven leadership, highlighting Bruno Fernandes' role as captain in maintaining balance and order on the pitch and in the dressing room. "I let the players and Bruno Fernandes, as captain, calm things down themselves. If it goes too far, then, of course, I’ll step in. But the dressing room belongs to the players. That’s their space to talk, argue, and challenge one another. It’s in those moments that trust is built, and bonds are strengthened."
Amorim’s calm and measured response reflects his growing influence at Manchester United, where he has begun to establish his own philosophy and standards. Since taking charge, the Portuguese coach has placed a significant emphasis on accountability, team cohesion, and fostering a competitive environment that drives improvement. His belief in players solving problems on their own is a deliberate strategy to develop leadership within the squad and encourage responsibility.
The incident itself may seem minor in the grand scheme of United’s season, but it speaks volumes about the expectations and intensity that now characterize the club under Amorim. A manager who thrives on structure and discipline, he also understands the importance of letting emotions surface and being channeled positively. "If it means something to you, you’ll react. That’s the attitude I want to see from every single player, whether they’re starting or coming off the bench. It shows fight, ambition, and hunger all things we need in this team."
United’s victory against Viktoria Plzen was significant for another reason it marked their third win in six matches since Amorim’s appointment. The two goals scored by Højlund, who came on as a substitute, provided a much-needed boost for the Danish forward, who has been eager to find consistency in front of goal. Amorim praised Højlund’s determination and ability to deliver when called upon, saying, "Rasmus was ready, and that’s the mentality we want. Everyone in this squad must be prepared to make a difference, no matter how long they’re on the pitch."
Attention now turns to a much bigger challenge on the horizon the highly anticipated Manchester derby at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday. Facing their cross-town rivals Manchester City, Amorim’s side will have little time to dwell on internal disagreements, as they aim to carry momentum into one of the season’s biggest fixtures. The match represents a key test for Amorim’s young tenure at United and a chance to demonstrate progress against the Premier League’s reigning champions.
Despite their inconsistent start under Amorim, United appear to be moving in the right direction. The Portuguese manager’s focus on instilling a winning mentality and allowing natural tensions to drive improvement could prove crucial in revitalizing the squad. As Amorim himself put it, “Moments like this show we’re growing as a team. We fight, we learn, and we move forward together.”
The dressing room may still belong to the players, but under Amorim, Manchester United seems to be finding its fight again just in time for the most critical weeks of their season. The clash against Manchester City will undoubtedly test their resolve, but if recent signs are anything to go by, United’s players are ready to embrace the challenge.
