Rúben Amorim Has Axed Two of the Three Stars That ‘Let Down’ Man United
In the ever-evolving world of European football, club managers are forced to make tough decisions — especially when it comes to reshaping underperforming squads. Sporting CP boss Rúben Amorim, one of Portugal’s most highly rated young coaches, has reportedly made a bold move by axing two of the three players once heavily criticised for “letting down” Manchester United. The decision, while surprising to some, is seen by others as a clear statement of Amorim’s no-nonsense philosophy and his intention to build a side capable of competing at the highest level.
The three players in question — who at various points wore the Manchester United badge and failed to live up to the club’s towering expectations — had seen their careers take different turns after leaving Old Trafford. Whether due to inconsistency, poor discipline, or simply being unable to handle the pressure, these stars were widely regarded by United fans and pundits as major disappointments. Now, two of them find themselves on the outside looking in, as Amorim takes decisive steps ahead of the new season.
A Ruthless Rebuild in Lisbon
Since taking over at Sporting in 2020, Amorim has been widely praised for his tactical intelligence, strong man-management, and commitment to developing young talent. His early success — including a Primeira Liga title in 2020–21, Sporting’s first in 19 years — earned him admirers across Europe. But with greater ambition comes greater scrutiny, and Amorim appears ready to make difficult choices to maintain his team’s competitive edge.
According to multiple reports from Portuguese media outlets, Amorim has officially frozen out two of his senior stars, both of whom previously played for Manchester United and failed to make the desired impact either at Old Trafford or since joining Sporting. These players were signed with high expectations but have struggled to deliver under the pressure of Sporting’s demanding system and the standards Amorim expects from his squad.
The Three Stars: A Brief Look Back
The trio in question all shared similar traits during their time at Manchester United: flashes of talent overshadowed by inconsistency, fitness issues, or questionable attitude.
1. Facundo Pellistri – While not entirely considered a failure, Pellistri never quite managed to cement a place in United’s first team. After several loan spells and limited opportunities under multiple managers, he moved to Sporting with hopes of reigniting his career. However, his performances remained erratic, and reports from Lisbon suggest Amorim has grown frustrated with his lack of tactical discipline and work rate off the ball. As such, Pellistri is one of the two players Amorim has reportedly axed.
2. Alex Telles – The Brazilian full-back arrived at Manchester United from Porto with a solid reputation, but he quickly fell behind Luke Shaw in the pecking order. After a mixed loan spell at Sevilla, Telles returned to Portugal hoping to rediscover his best form. However, he never truly settled under Amorim. Criticised for defensive lapses and a lack of pace, Telles failed to adapt to Sporting’s aggressive wing-back system. As of the latest reports, he too has been dropped from the first-team squad.
3. Donny van de Beek – The Dutch midfielder’s fall from grace at Manchester United was one of the most baffling in recent memory. Signed from Ajax with high expectations, Van de Beek never received a consistent run of games and seemed to lose confidence over time. Though not officially axed by Amorim yet, he is believed to be on thin ice. Sources suggest the manager is still evaluating him during preseason but has serious concerns about his physicality and pace for the Portuguese league.
Amorim’s Message: Perform or Depart
The decision to cut ties with two of the three former Manchester United players sends a clear message: reputation means nothing if it’s not backed by performance. Amorim, a former midfielder himself, is known for valuing intensity, discipline, and tactical intelligence. Players who don’t fit his mould — no matter their pedigree — are unlikely to last long under his watch.
This approach mirrors that of other elite managers who have found success by building a cohesive unit rather than relying on star power alone. Amorim’s philosophy is centered on a high-pressing system with quick transitions, a style that demands total commitment from every player. Pellistri and Telles, despite their natural talent, simply did not offer the consistency and tactical maturity required to thrive under such a system.
Fan Reactions: Relief and Regret
The response from Sporting CP supporters has been largely supportive. Many fans were growing frustrated with the underperformance of certain high-profile signings and have applauded Amorim for making bold moves. “You can’t build a team for titles with passengers,” one supporter wrote on Twitter. “Amorim has every right to clean house.”
Manchester United fans have also weighed in, mostly with a sense of grim vindication. Many still remember the promise these players carried — particularly Van de Beek, whose lack of opportunities at Old Trafford became a symbol of United’s chaotic recruitment and player management strategies in the post-Ferguson era.
However, some feel a degree of sympathy for the players, pointing out that a lack of proper support and stability at both United and Sporting may have hindered their development.
What’s Next for the Axed Stars?
With Pellistri and Telles reportedly set to be placed on the transfer list, their agents are now seeking new clubs ahead of the summer window. There is interest from South America for both players, while clubs in Turkey and the MLS are monitoring their situations.
Pellistri, at just 23, still has time to salvage his career. His pace and directness remain valuable assets, but he’ll need to refine his game and find a system that suits his skill set. Telles, now in his early 30s, may find a move to a less demanding league more suitable as he enters the twilight of his career.
Van de Beek’s situation remains uncertain. Amorim may yet give him a final opportunity to prove himself in the preseason fixtures. If not, the Dutchman may be looking at another move — possibly to the Eredivisie or a mid-table La Liga club — in a final bid to revive a once-promising career.
A Broader Lesson for United
The situation involving these three players — particularly how they’ve fared post-Manchester United — is also a stark reminder of the ongoing issues with United’s transfer and player development strategy in recent years. A lack of clear direction, coupled with an over-reliance on potential rather than system-fit, has led to several high-profile failures.
Rúben Amorim’s swift action in Lisbon, by contrast, demonstrates what can happen when a manager is given the freedom — and has the vision — to make tough calls for the good of the team.
Conclusion
Rúben Amorim’s decision to axe two of the three players that once “let down” Manchester United is more than a disciplinary action — it’s a statement of intent. With Sporting CP eyeing domestic and European success, Amorim is laying down a blueprint where merit trumps reputation. For the axed stars, it’s another chapter in a turbulent career. For Sporting, it’s a sign that the club is serious about its future, guided by a manager who knows exactly what he wants.
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