Ruben Amorim kept it cool after his first Man Utd win. (Image: TNT SPORTS)
cut the figure of a coach who understands the magnitude of the task on his hands in 3-2 on Thursday. The Portuguese boss’ full-time actions after the dramatic triumph left those in the crowd surprised but displayed the type of character he is.
Amorim enjoyed a triumphant homecoming against the Norwegian champions – who will lift their country’s title for the fourth time in five years on Sunday with a win.
‘s relentless pressing earned United a second successive ultra-early opener under the 39-year-old’s stewardship as Alejandro Garnacho pounced on a forced Nikita Haikin error.
Disaster beckoned later in the first half when Glimt took advantage of the Red Devils’ 3-4-3 infancy, scoring twice in an uncomfortable four-minute period.
Hakon Evjen struck an unstoppable long-range curler past Andre Onana that rivalled Omari Hutchinson’s equaliser for Ipswich Town on Sunday.
Philip Zinckernagel then latched onto a hopeful long ball, beating Tyrell Malacia – on his first start in 18 months – for pace before firing low to silence the Stretford End.
United persevered, though, and Amorim was delighted with his side’s commitment to his vision as they largely dominated proceedings.
The hosts found their reward on the stroke of half-time when Noussair Mazraoui picked out Hojlund before the 21-year-old striker produced a heavenly touch and volley to draw level.
Ruben Amorim offered a full-time applause. (Image: Getty)
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Hojlund added his second five minutes into the second half, taking advantage of Mason Mount’s deft flick and Manuel Ugarte’s square across goal.
And that’s how it ended after a bit of Glimt pressure but predominantly a controlled performance with plenty of chances created.
Old Trafford was in a celebratory mood after full-time as the players performed their usual lap of honour to thank the crowd for their support.
However, Amorim didn’t join in. He embraced Glimt boss Kjetil Knutsen before making a beeline for the tunnel, offering nothing more than applause to the supporters congratulating him and the team.
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Amorim’s snub of the post-match lap of honour surprised many in the crowd keen to strike up an early connection.
It was widely expected he’d cherish the moment of his first win as United’s head coach on his home debut.
But it equally hammered home the demeanour he has exuded since walking through the door from the winning machine he created and abandoned at Sporting.
He would’ve enjoyed the “special” night he hoped for, yet his primary focus is to continue his winning streak in Manchester.