Manchester United certainly backed Ruben Amorim in the summer transfer window and some of his new arrivals have made an impact, but results are still not going his way
Ruben Amorim was finally afforded a summer transfer window in the hope that it would improve his situation at Manchester United, but familiar issues remain even if some of his new arrivals have shown promise.
The Portuguese head coach arrived midway through last season, immediately implementing his way of playing, despite not having the players that suited that style. He persevered regardless, leading to United's worst ever Premier League finish.
This summer though he was able to plough more than £200million into his frontline with goals a particular problem last term. The likes of Rasmus Hojlund, Alejandro Garnacho and Antony have left with two proven top flight performers in Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha arriving at Old Trafford.
Benjamin Sesko was also signed, despite huge interest from Newcastle, with the young striker eventually making the move for £74million.
All the names on paper looked promising. A new goalkeeper in Senne Lammens was bought in on deadline day. His importance growing in light of Andre Onana's surprise loan move to Turkey late in the day.
Paraguayan Diego Leon was also signed, he's talked up making a name for himself when he gets a chance, but he is likely to be more of a slow burner in Manchester. The overriding issue though for Amorim has been the continued failure of his system to get the right results.
United's budget meant they couldn't get the midfielder they wanted, which has left Bruno Fernandes playing in the midfield two. That has given him more defensively responsibility and less attacking freedom, none of which has helped the Manchester outfit. There are plenty who believe this squad possesses good players, but they are being made to look worse by the system.
Amorim saw his side beat Sunderland at the weekend, but that came after a loss at Brentford which highlighted the obvious flaws in how United are currently operating. If there are any positives it is that Cunha has looked sharp, Sesko is off the mark in front of goal and Mbeumo has had moments of quality. We take a look at United's summer arrivals and give them an early grading in Manchester.
Senne Lammens - 8/10
Delivered a composed first appearance in the 2-0 victory over Sunderland last weekend and looks likely to retain his position ahead of Bayindir moving forwards. Controlled his area, comfortable with both feet, reasonable ball distribution and appears to be a dependable choice between the sticks.
Matheus Cunha 6/10
His start at United has been slower than anticipated following his £65m transfer from Wolves. After an injury in the Burnley victory, he returned at Brentford, where his cross to Mbeumo earned a penalty that Fernandes missed. With Mount back fit, Cunha's spot is now under threat.
Bryan Mbeumo 8/10
The standout signing for United this summer. He's made an immediate impact after his £71m move from Brentford. His two goals and one assist don't fully reflect his overall contribution, as his speed and diagonal runs behind enemy lines have added a new element to United's attack.
Benjamin Sesko 7/10
It's taken him some time to find his feet, but his two goals in the last two matches suggest he's getting there. United are playing to Sesko's strengths, using long balls for the imposing striker to flick on for his teammates, while his poacher's instincts have resulted in his goals.