At this time of year, it is easy to see radiant faces, and that is almost always present every time Ruben Amorim enters the press conference room. No matter how you evaluate his 13 years in charge at Manchester United, it is difficult to deny that he is an attractive factor in the Premier League coaching team.
However, he also had to endure many criticisms, even partly mocking. Amorim's record clearly needs to be carefully screened, as he has won just 23 of his 58 games as Man United head coach.
However, those numbers cannot justify the mockery he has suffered. Despite the pressure, Amorim has always maintained a gentle, polite and positive attitude. Amorim is not harsh, not mocking, not showing negligence.
However, after the most recent Premier League match at Old Trafford - where West Ham United scored a late equaliser - Amorim seemed to be more angry than ever in front of the media. He was not hot-tempered or threw things away, but his anger was clearly suppressed.
For example, Amorim was unhappy when asked about his lack of confidence in Man United's academy - a rare reaction, because the Portuguese strategist was always open to any questions, no matter how difficult. There is a reason for the frustration.
Man United missed the opportunity to ease some of their disappointment after a stumble against Everton with one less player, while also missing the opportunity to start December with an affirming victory.
Reasonably and remarkably, Amorim has continued to receive support from the Old Trafford board, despite a continuous wave of criticism from experts, including former Manchester United players.
Recently, Paul Scholes frankly commented: "I didn't think this coach understood the club, let it go. I simply don't think he's the right person."
There will be no excuses accepted if the "Red Devils" do not take a solid position in the top 4 in mid-January. Injuries cannot be an excuse, and the absence of players for the African Football Cup is no exception.
Amorim himself admitted that at his press conference before the match against Bournemouth. He emphasized: "We have players who are capable of handling all situations. When you have a full week of work, you can observe many things and practice to prepare for any situation."
After the match against Bournemouth, Man United will visit Aston Villa, before hosting Newcastle and Wolves at Old Trafford, then entering the away matches against Leeds United and Burnley. Aston Villa are certainly a difficult challenge, but Man United will face an opponent who has played 6 more matches than them this season - a factor that can make a significant difference.
The "Red Devils" squad this season is expected to be in the group with the most physical quantity when entering the dense competition period. Although the absence of Bryan Mbeumo, Amad and Noussair Mazraoui are significant losses, Amorim still has enough replacement options to rotate the squad.
Although it was just a confrontation with the weakest team in the league, the big win against Wolves could still be an important boost for Man United. The tight schedule is not allowed to be life-and-death test for Amorim, but if he cannot bring Man United a full Christmas season of joy, it is time for serious questions to be raised.
