Rúben Amorim is facing mounting pressure at Manchester United after last weekend’s 3-1 defeat to Brentford left the club 14th in the Premier League. Despite the poor start, United’s hierarchy are said to be standing by their head coach, though the expectation for a turnaround grows heavier with each passing game.

This weekend could be decisive. United host newly-promoted Sunderland, who have stunned many by climbing to fifth place with 11 points from six matches. A fixture once considered a straightforward home win now looks anything but, with the Black Cats arriving in form and full of confidence.

Chris Sutton backs Sunderland upset
Former Premier League striker Chris Sutton has delivered a bleak prediction for Amorim’s side, tipping Sunderland to win 1-0 at Old Trafford. Writing in his BBC Sport column, Sutton said:
“United are all over the place at the moment, and Amorim looks like a manager desperate for someone to put him out of his misery. They’re just not improving.”

Sutton also criticised United’s defensive display against Brentford, singling out Harry Maguire’s failed offside gamble and Altay Bayindir’s error for the Bees’ second goal. He added: “You can blame Amorim, but when defenders make mistakes like that, it’s simply awful defending. And the goalkeeping situation is baffling too – they signed Senne Lammens, but where is he?”

Potential changes for Sunderland clash
Amorim is expected to consider alterations ahead of Saturday. Lammens could finally be handed his debut if United decide to reshuffle between the posts, while defensive options such as Matthijs de Ligt, Leny Yoro and Luke Shaw may replace underperforming names.

Midfield selection is also under scrutiny, with fans urging Amorim to start 20-year-old Kobbie Mainoo. The youngster has been overlooked so far, but Saturday may present the opportunity for him to stake a claim.

With pressure intensifying and fixtures not getting easier, Sunderland’s visit could prove pivotal in shaping Amorim’s immediate future at Old Trafford.