Gabby Agbonlahor agrees as Ruben Amorim sack verdict drops before Manchester United vs Sunderland
Sunderland fans are in dreamland following the brilliant start to the season.
Sunderland’s 1-0 win against Nottingham Forest showcased that this side can achieve big things this season, with the Black Cats currently sitting fifth in the Premier League.
Robin Roefs excelled yet again, with Sunderland keeping yet another clean sheet as they bid to become the first promoted team to achieve Premier League survival since 2022/23.
The Mackems will take on Man United at Old Trafford on Saturday, and a positive result is within the realms of possibility given their opponents’ form this campaign.
Sunderland favourites for Manchester United clash
Ruben Amorim’s side lost 3-1 to Brentford in their last match and are currently languishing in 14th place.
With speculation mounting over his future in Manchester, Sunderland could put the final nail in his coffin.
Speaking on talkSPORT on 29 September, Jeff Stelling said: “The end would certainly be nigh for Ruben Amorim if Manchester United lose against Sunderland.”
Presenter Olivia Buzaglo added: “I actually would back Sunderland to go to Old Trafford and get a result.”
Former Aston Villa striker Gabby Agbonlahor replied: “100 per cent. If you look at Amorim’s stats, 33 games, only won nine, drawn seven, lost 17.”
Le Bris and Amorim have gone through contrasting experiences whilst managing in England, with the Sunderland manager viewed as a hero for securing Sunderland’s return to the Premier League.
Amorim spent £200million on Man United’s new-look attack; however, he is yet to get the Red Devils firing as he continues to face scrutiny for his ineffective three-at-the-back system.
| Amorim | Stat | Le Bris |
| 49 | Games managed | 58 |
| 18 | Wins | 26 |
| 12 | Draws | 17 |
| 19 | Losses | 15 |
| 36.73 | Win percentage | 44.83 |
As Amorim approaches one year into his Man United tenure, a defeat at home to high-flying Sunderland could heap even more scrutiny on the Portuguese manager.
Granit Xhaka will be key for Sunderland vs Man United
Granit Xhaka has been rightfully praised for the brilliant impact he’s had on Sunderland this season.
His brilliant delivery for Omar Alderete’s maiden Sunderland goal took is tally of assists up to three, and the veteran is not just leading by example on the pitch.
Chris Rigg and Noah Sadiki will benefit from Xhaka’s influence as they continue to gain more game time alongside him.
The 32-year-old has oozed class throughout each match, whilst also providing sparks of magic against West Ham, Brentford, and now Nottingham Forest.
Sunderland haven’t won at Old Trafford since 2014, and if they are to achieve a long-awaited victory, Xhaka will certainly be the catalyst for that.
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