Ruben Amorim’s refusal to abandon his system proved decisive as Manchester United defeated Chelsea at Old Trafford.
Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim’s tactical conviction was rewarded on Wednesday night as his side secured a 2-1 win over Chelsea at Old Trafford.
United dominated early proceedings, unsettling Enzo Maresca’s side with relentless pressure. Amorim had faced criticism after the Manchester derby defeat, but he stood firm. “No, no, no. No one. Not even the Pope will change it,” he declared before kick-off.
His players justified that faith, with Bruno Fernandes opening the scoring after sustained attacking play. Casemiro doubled the lead, though the Brazilian later saw red for a second booking. Chelsea attempted to respond, and Trevoh Chalobah’s header halved the deficit, but the Blues never truly looked in control.
Goalkeeper Robert Sanchez’s dismissal compounded Chelsea’s troubles, while Maresca’s early substitutions—including Cole Palmer, who appeared injured—failed to change the game’s flow.
The win lifted United’s confidence and underlined Amorim’s belief that his system, despite doubts, can deliver results at the highest level.