Michael Owen says Manchester United will return to Premier League glory

Former England striker Michael Owen has expressed hope that Manchester United will reclaim Premier League glory, but he also cautioned that the club’s struggles extend beyond current manager Ruben Amorim. Speaking exclusively to India Today, Owen highlighted deep-rooted structural flaws, inconsistency, and a lack of cohesion as key challenges that must be addressed.

Amorim’s tenure: 50 games in charge

Ruben Amorim became the first manager since Sir Alex Ferguson to reach 50 games at Manchester United, but his record has been underwhelming. After 50 matches:

• Wins: 20

• Draws: 9

• Losses: 21

• Win percentage: 40%

• Loss percentage: 42%

In comparison, Erik ten Hag had won 35 matches at the same stage, benefiting from a full pre-season and early signings. Amorim took over mid-season, inheriting a low-confidence squad and introducing his favoured 3-4-2-1 system, which has been a mixed success.

Despite these challenges, Amorim has bolstered the squad with around £200 million worth of new signings, including Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, Benjamin Sesko, and goalkeeper Lemmens. A 2–0 win over Sunderland before the international break gave fans a glimpse of promise, lifting United to ninth in the Premier League table.

Owen on United’s structural issues

Michael Owen believes the problems at Manchester United are systemic and not limited to Amorim. “Since Ferguson left, they’ve changed managers, directors, players, even medical staff,” Owen said. “Results won’t change until the structure above is clear, until everyone, from boardroom to pitch, is pulling in the same direction.”

Owen added that the club’s young talent, including Kobbie Mainoo, Amad Diallo, and Benjamin Sesko, has enormous potential, but Amorim’s limited usage of key players has frustrated fans.

Patience and perspective

Comparing United’s situation with other clubs post-dynasty, Owen noted, “When Wenger left Arsenal, they struggled. Liverpool did the same after their golden years. These things go in cycles. You can’t replace a dynasty overnight. Patience is part of the process.”

Despite the challenges, Owen remains optimistic:

“One thing is almost guaranteed, Manchester United will be back. It’s not if, it’s when. Two years, four, six, maybe eight, but it will happen.”

Key upcoming tests

United’s next match at Anfield against Liverpool will be a critical test for Amorim, offering a chance to demonstrate progress. While the squad has firepower and individual brilliance, Owen emphasised that synchronising all elements is crucial for long-term success.

Manchester United’s road back to Premier League glory is a journey of patience, planning, and structural stability, but Owen is confident that the Red Devils have what it takes to return to the top.