MANCHESTER, England – Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim got the perfect response in his 50th game in charge, as his team claimed a 2-0 Premier League victory over Sunderland at Old Trafford.
The result was a much-needed morale boost for Amorim amid pressure over his position at the club. Goals from Mason Mount and Benjamin Sesko, combined with an outstanding debut performance from goalkeeper Senne Lammens, ensured all three points for United.
Mount and Sesko Shine Early
Mount returned to the starting XI and opened the scoring after just eight minutes, finishing with a clever touch that set the tone for United’s dominant first half. Sesko doubled the lead midway through the opening 45 minutes, marking his second goal in consecutive games.
Sunderland had opportunities to respond, with Bertrand Traoré and Dan Ballard missing clear chances. A high-foot penalty initially awarded to the visitors was overturned by VAR, further frustrating the away side.
Lammens’ Debut Steals the Show
The headline of the day was undoubtedly Senne Lammens, making his first start since joining United from Royal Antwerp for £18.2 million. The 23-year-old Belgian impressed with key saves, including stopping a late effort from Sunderland substitute Chemsdine Talbi and catching a dangerous cross in the final moments.
“He looks confident in the first game, but the important thing is the teammates help Senne to have a good game,” said Amorim. “Everyone is focused, not a lot of mistakes, we did well as a group effort.”
Fans responded with chants comparing him to Peter Schmeichel, while also singing for “Amorim’s red and white army.”
Tactical Changes Pay Off
Amorim resisted calls to overhaul his system, making only key personnel adjustments. The standout change was the inclusion of Lammens in goal and the return of Mason Mount, which proved decisive. Diogo Dalot filled in at left wing-back for Patrick Dorgu, while Sesko continued his hot form in attack.
“This was a team effort,” said Amorim. “We didn’t play perfectly, but we focused, defended well, and capitalized on our moments. These small things are going to help us win games.”
A Reminder of Challenges Ahead
While the win gives United a rare comfortable result since beating Leicester 3-0 in March, critics will point out that Sunderland is a newly promoted team. Five of Amorim’s 10 Premier League victories have come against newly promoted sides.
The next challenge comes against champions Liverpool at Anfield, a test that will reveal whether Amorim can build momentum and restore confidence in his squad.
