‎'You Would Be Punished': Man United Legend Insists Sir Alex Ferguson Would Have Ended Amorim's Discipline Problems

‎Former Manchester United winger Nani is convinced that the disciplinary challenges currently confronting head coach Ruben Amorim would not have existed during Sir Alex Ferguson’s reign. According to Nani, the legendary Scottish manager maintained strict control in the dressing room and swiftly dealt with any player who stepped out of line, often through his infamous “hairdryer treatment.”

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‎Former Manchester United star Nani believes Sir Alex Ferguson would never have tolerated the indiscipline Ruben Amorim is facing, as the ex-winger recalls strict punishments and firm rules at Old Trafford.

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‎Amorim Labels United’s Young Players as “Entitled”

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‎Ahead of Manchester United’s Premier League away fixture against Aston Villa last Sunday, Amorim openly questioned the mentality of some of the club’s younger players. When asked why he has been hesitant to rely heavily on them during the 2025–26 campaign, the Portuguese coach described the youngsters as feeling “entitled.”

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‎The former Sporting CP manager had already raised concerns about the development of defender Harry Amass, currently on loan at Sheffield Wednesday, as well as forward Chido Obi. Those remarks prompted the young players to respond indirectly with subtle messages on social media, defending their performances.

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‎Amorim explained that his comments were intended to challenge, not damage, the players. He stressed that difficult conversations can be necessary for growth and insisted that setbacks are part of development. The United boss also suggested that some players have lost sight of what it truly means to represent Manchester United, adding that his door remains open, yet no player has approached him to discuss the issue directly.

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‎Amorim Responds to Mainoo Family T-Shirt Controversy

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‎Amorim struck a calmer tone when addressing a situation involving midfielder Kobbie Mainoo. During United’s 4–4 league draw with Bournemouth on December 15, Mainoo’s half-brother, Jordan Mainoo-Hames, was seen wearing a “Free Kobbie Mainoo” T-shirt at Old Trafford, highlighting the player’s limited game time.

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‎Kobbie Mainoo, an England international, has yet to start a match this season, instead making 11 substitute appearances. Amorim made it clear that the incident would not influence team selection, emphasizing that the midfielder would play whenever he is deemed the right fit. He also noted that Mainoo performed well and that there were no internal issues within the squad heading into the Villa match.

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‎Garnacho Exit and Family Criticism

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‎Amorim’s handling of Alejandro Garnacho also drew attention earlier in the season. The winger was informed he was not part of the manager’s plans before completing a £40 million move to Chelsea in August.

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‎Following United’s Europa League final loss to Tottenham Hotspur in May, where Garnacho was introduced late in the match, his brother Roberto publicly criticised Amorim on social media. The post accused the coach of unfair treatment despite Garnacho’s previous contributions in crucial matches.

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‎Nani: Youngsters Are Lucky Sir Alex Is No Longer in Charge

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‎Nani believes today’s academy players should count themselves fortunate that Sir Alex Ferguson is no longer managing the club. The former United winger, who played for the Red Devils from 2007 to 2015 and won 12 trophies, recalled how Ferguson demanded absolute discipline and accountability.

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‎Nani explained that under Ferguson, any player who failed to meet standards would be dropped immediately until their behaviour improved. He stressed that no individual was ever considered bigger than the club, regardless of status or reputation. Even global stars were treated the same if their conduct was not acceptable.

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‎The Portuguese winger also shared a personal experience from his early days at United, revealing that he was left out for several weeks despite strong performances. Only after identifying and correcting issues behind the scenes was he restored to the team. Nani believes the current generation could benefit from similar discipline, structure, and clear rules.

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‎Sir Alex Ferguson remains one of football’s most celebrated managers, having overseen a 26-year era of dominance at Manchester United. His trophy haul includes 13 league titles, two Champions League triumphs, and five FA Cups, cementing his legacy at Old Trafford.

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‎United Aim to Bounce Back Against Newcastle

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‎Manchester United will look to get back to winning ways when they host Newcastle United on Boxing Day. Following the dramatic draw with Bournemouth, Amorim’s side suffered a defeat to Aston Villa, with Morgan Rogers scoring twice.

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‎Newcastle, currently 11th in the Premier League, could draw level on points with seventh-placed United if they secure victory at Old Trafford. Eddie Howe’s team arrive in good form, having lost just once in their last seven matches across all competitions.