Signs of 'Secrecy' and Unease Seen in Sir Jim Ratcliffe's Interview on Ruben Amorim's Man Utd Role

‎Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s recent comments on Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim’s future have sparked renewed speculation after body language expert Inbaal Honigman claimed his gestures hinted at “tension” and “secrecy.” The INEOS chief publicly backed the Portuguese coach, but his expressions during a podcast appearance suggested deeper unease behind the scenes.

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‎Body language expert says Sir Jim Ratcliffe showed signs of tension and secrecy when discussing Ruben Amorim’s uncertain future at Manchester United.

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‎During an interview on The Business Podcast by The Times, Ratcliffe addressed questions regarding Amorim’s position amid mounting pressure following a poor start to the Premier League season. The Manchester United co-owner dismissed reports of a managerial change, reiterating that Amorim would be given time to prove his credentials. Ratcliffe emphasized a “three-year” plan for the 40-year-old, highlighting the club’s desire to avoid “knee-jerk” decisions.

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‎Ruben Amorim’s tenure has been turbulent since joining Manchester United from Sporting CP last November. The manager has secured just 10 wins in 34 Premier League matches, leaving the club 10th in the current standings. United’s early Carabao Cup exit to Grimsby Town has further increased scrutiny of his performance and future prospects.

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‎According to reports, there is a growing divide within the Manchester United hierarchy over how long Amorim should remain in charge. While Ratcliffe publicly advocates patience, sources suggest both the Glazer family and INEOS executives are weighing potential contingency plans.

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‎Body language specialist Inbaal Honigman analyzed Ratcliffe’s interview for OLBG and concluded that his demeanor reflected discomfort and guardedness. “Crossed arms form a protective gesture, as if shielding himself from difficult questions,” she observed. “When Sir Jim’s hand covers his own bicep, it creates a self-soothing motion, often used to calm tension.” Honigman added that Ratcliffe’s rapid blinking during pressure points of the interview could indicate dishonesty or anxiety.

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‎She also noted that Ratcliffe’s firm “chopping” hand gestures showed decisiveness, yet his shifting posture revealed “tension and secrecy.” Such signals, she explained, may appear when individuals seek to project confidence but are internally uncertain about their stance.

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‎The expert’s observations come amid mixed messages surrounding Manchester United’s long-term managerial strategy. Although Ratcliffe continues to preach stability, reports suggest the club’s leadership is already evaluating performance metrics and reviewing backup options should results fail to improve. Amorim’s tactical reliance on a back-three formation and reported dressing room unease have contributed to speculation over his ability to reverse the club’s decline.

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‎Ratcliffe’s statements arrive at a critical juncture in Manchester United’s rebuild. The INEOS group, which oversees football operations, has championed strategic patience and sustainable management as key principles of their new direction. However, the disparity between Ratcliffe’s verbal assurances and his body language has prompted questions about the level of confidence in Amorim’s leadership.

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‎The cost of parting ways with Amorim before his one-year anniversary, estimated at £12 million, may also factor into the club’s caution. Manchester United’s recent form, including a 15th-place finish last season and a Europa League final defeat to Tottenham, has intensified expectations for immediate improvement.

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‎Manchester United resume their campaign after the international break with a pivotal Premier League fixture against Liverpool at Anfield on October 19. Amorim’s side faces significant pressure to deliver a strong performance amid ongoing speculation about his future. A poor result could reignite internal discussions at INEOS regarding potential managerial changes.

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‎For Ratcliffe, the coming weeks will be crucial in demonstrating both his commitment to long-term planning and his credibility with supporters. As Amorim seeks to stabilize Manchester United’s season, observers will continue to scrutinize Ratcliffe’s every word and gesture for signs of shifting confidence within Old Trafford’s leadership.