‎'You Were Punished': Man United Legend Says Sir Alex Ferguson Would Have Ended Amorim's Old Trafford Discipline Problems

‎Former Manchester United winger Nani believes the disciplinary challenges currently confronting head coach Ruben Amorim would not have existed under legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson. According to Nani, Ferguson’s strict approach and famous “hairdryer treatment” ensured discipline was maintained in the dressing room, leaving no room for players to step out of line.

‎

‎Manchester United icon Nani claims Sir Alex Ferguson would never have tolerated the indiscipline Ruben Amorim is facing, as debates grow over entitled youngsters, social media backlash, and Old Trafford standards.

‎Getty Images Sport 

‎

‎Amorim recently suggested that United’s younger players have developed a sense of entitlement, explaining why he has been reluctant to rely heavily on them during the 2025–26 season. His comments came ahead of the club’s Premier League visit to Aston Villa, where he openly questioned the attitude of some academy graduates.

‎

‎The Portuguese coach, formerly of Sporting CP, had earlier expressed concerns about the development of defender Harry Amass, currently on loan at Sheffield Wednesday, and forward Chido Obi. Those remarks prompted the youngsters to respond indirectly on social media, a move that further highlighted the growing tension.

‎

‎Amorim defended his stance by insisting that tough criticism can be beneficial. He said difficult periods help young players grow and stressed that standards at Manchester United must be respected both on and off the pitch. While acknowledging the team’s struggles on the field, Amorim maintained that he was fulfilling his responsibilities to the club away from it, adding that some players appear to forget what representing United truly means.

‎

‎He also addressed the issue of players responding publicly rather than speaking directly to him, noting that his door remains open but no one has come forward. Amorim reiterated that his comments were not personal attacks but reflections on the demands of playing for a club of United’s stature.

‎

‎The situation intensified during United’s 4–4 league draw with Bournemouth on 15 December, when attention shifted to Kobbie Mainoo’s half-brother. Jordan Mainoo-Hames, a former Love Island contestant, was seen at Old Trafford wearing a T-shirt reading “Free Kobbie Mainoo,” referencing the midfielder’s limited playing time this season.

‎

‎Kobbie Mainoo, an England international, has yet to start a match under Amorim, although the 20-year-old has made 11 substitute appearances. Amorim played down the incident, clarifying that Mainoo himself was not responsible and confirming it would not influence team selection. He praised the midfielder’s recent performance and insisted family actions would not affect his decisions.

‎

‎Amorim has also faced criticism from Alejandro Garnacho’s brother, Roberto, following the winger’s exit from the club. Garnacho was informed he was not part of Amorim’s plans before completing a £40 million move to Chelsea in August. After Garnacho’s limited role in United’s Europa League final defeat to Tottenham Hotspur, Roberto took to social media to criticise the coach’s handling of the situation.

‎

‎Against this backdrop, United’s young players have been warned that they are fortunate Sir Alex Ferguson is no longer in charge. Nani, who played for United between 2007 and 2015 and won 12 trophies, recalled how Ferguson dealt swiftly with any lapses in behaviour.

‎

‎Speaking to the Daily Mail, Nani explained that players who stepped out of line were immediately dropped until they corrected their conduct. He stressed that acceptance and adherence to rules were non-negotiable and that no individual, regardless of status, was bigger than the club.

‎

‎Nani shared a personal experience from his early days at United, revealing he was sidelined for several weeks despite strong performances. After realising the issue stemmed from off-field behaviour, he addressed it and earned his place back. He believes today’s youngsters need similar discipline and structure to thrive.

‎

‎Ferguson’s legacy at Manchester United remains unmatched. During his 26-year tenure, he transformed the club into a dominant force, winning 13 league titles, two Champions League trophies, and five FA Cups among numerous other honours.

‎

‎Looking ahead, United aim to bounce back when they host Newcastle United on Boxing Day. Following the dramatic draw with Bournemouth, Amorim’s side suffered defeat at Aston Villa, where Morgan Rogers scored twice. Newcastle, currently 11th, could draw level on points with seventh-placed United if they secure victory at Old Trafford, having lost just once in their last seven matches across all competitions.