Rúben Amorim has made a significant change to the team’s matchday preparation for this season aimed to boost performance.
Starting
today against Arsenal, he has scrapped Erik ten Hag’s policy of requiring players to arrive at Old Trafford four hours before kick-off.
Instead, United’s squad will now assemble at the recently refurbished Carrington training complex before travelling together to the stadium just two hours prior to matches.
The decision reflects
Amorim’s belief that preparation should revolve around training-ground facilities rather than stadium rituals.
Carrington has undergone a major upgrade this summer, with state-of-the-art recovery suites, nutrition stations, and fitness areas designed to rival the best in Europe.
By centralising pre-match routines there, Amorim hopes to ensure players benefit from consistency, comfort, and access to tailored resources right up until game time.
This shift also reflects the Portuguese manager’s emphasis on unity. Gathering the squad at Carrington before each home fixture allows for collective preparation in a controlled environment, away from the distractions and pressures of the stadium.
The team will then make the short journey to Old Trafford together, reinforcing the sense of discipline and togetherness that Amorim has been keen to instil since his arrival.
While the change may seem subtle, it signals a broader cultural adjustment. Amorim is keen to move United away from what he views as outdated habits and towards methods proven to deliver results at the highest level.
The relaxed schedule also reduces unnecessary downtime at the stadium, helping players stay mentally fresh.
With United set to begin their Premier League campaign against Arsenal, all eyes will be on whether these adjustments translate into sharper performances on the pitch.
For Amorim, though, the message is clear: success will come not only from tactics and talent, but from reshaping every detail of how the club prepares for battle.