New manager's debut sees Manchester United win 2-0, Amolin's crucial adjustments keep hopes alive! Yet it may still not be enough to avoid dismissal.

Before the international break, Manchester United beat newly promoted Sunderland 2-0 at Old Trafford, with two first-half goals from Mason Mount and Sheshko ensuring head coach Ruben Amolin won’t have to worry about his job for the next fortnight. The fans at the Theatre of Dreams still chanted for Amolin, yet many remain unconvinced he can reverse the situation and bring the team back to success.

Amolin made several key changes to Manchester United’s starting lineup: Sena Ramens made his debut, replacing Alty Baindil as the first-choice goalkeeper; Amad Diallo started as the right wing-back, while Diogo Dalot shifted to left wing-back, replacing Patrick Dogu, adding creativity on the flanks; Casemiro returned from suspension, taking Ugart’s midfield spot to strengthen the center; Mount replaced Cunha as the left-sided number 10, avoiding tactical overlap with Bruno Fernandes.

Sunderland's early attacking attempts alarmed the home fans, especially Masuaku’s left-wing cross where Traore failed to connect properly with the ball in front of goal. Had that shot gone in, VAR might have needed to draw a line to determine if De Ligt’s offside was legitimate.

Manchester United regained their early-season form and improved their conversion rate. In the 9th minute, a right-wing attack saw Mbemo deliver a left-footed cross, Mount controlled with his left foot and volleyed with his right, sending the ball into the net for a 1-0 lead. Notably, this was Mount’s first Premier League goal at Old Trafford since joining the club two years ago.

United nearly doubled their advantage when Bruno Fernandes curled a shot from the edge of the box that hit the crossbar, and Amad’s header on the rebound narrowly missed the target.

Assistant coach Carlos Fernandez devised a throw-in tactic for Manchester United, with ball boys holding towels on the sidelines. Near the half-hour mark, Dalot’s powerful throw caused chaos in Sunderland’s box, and Sheshko capitalized to score his second consecutive game goal, putting United 2-0 ahead.

Before halftime, new goalkeeper Ramens was finally tested, making a side dive to save Granit Xhaka’s powerful long-range shot from outside the box. Sunderland posed little threat to Ramens, but the Belgian £18 million keeper earned cheers from the stands by intercepting several crosses.

In stoppage time, Sheshko raised his foot too high while defending in the box, but VAR showed Trae Holm’s header lacked conviction, meaning the Manchester United striker did not make contact. Referee Stuart Attwell overturned the penalty decision to a corner, with United maintaining their 2-0 lead into halftime.

The second half was uneventful; Sunderland lacked the strength to mount a comeback, while Manchester United struggled, especially after Mount was substituted, leading to a more disorganized performance. However, Mount received a standing ovation from the Theatre of Dreams crowd as he left the pitch, marking his most heroic display for the club to date.

In the final moments, Ramens had another chance to shine, rushing out to block Chemsdin Talbi’s one-on-one attempt, preserving United’s 2-0 clean sheet — their first shutout of the season. Ramens is expected to start at Anfield unless Amolin makes another questionable decision. After the match, Amolin praised him: "Sena (Ramens) performed very well. Importantly, his teammates helped him a lot, allowing him to have a very strong showing."

In terms of both performance and result, this was Manchester United’s best game this season. Amolin earned a vital 3 points in his 50th match in charge. However, this does not guarantee his job security. The British Sun reported that United might still consider a managerial change within the next two weeks. Although unlikely, Sir Jim Ratcliffe did not attend the match, and Omar Belada and Jason Willcocks in the stands might not call Amolin after the game.

Nevertheless, the fixtures after the international break remain a challenge for Amolin. He will lead the team to Anfield to face the reigning champions Liverpool, who have recently suffered three consecutive defeats in all competitions. Manchester United might feel they have a chance to escape unscathed. Similar to the last international break, Amolin’s side defeated Burnley at home, while Manchester City lost repeatedly, culminating in a 3-0 derby defeat to Guardiola’s team.

Amolin insists his players support him and do not want a new manager, but the 40-year-old Portuguese demands consistent performances from them every match. "Today I saw the players give their all; they don’t want constant coaching changes," Amolin said. "But as I mentioned this week, real support for the coach means fighting hard in every attack and defense transition. They need to prove it through actions. Sometimes watching the game, I’m sure the players know at the end they could have done better."

Manchester United still need to improve their away form. This season, the team has three home wins and one loss, but away they have three defeats and one draw. Amolin added, "We passed the test this week, but we must perform steadily on the pitch, not just at home but also away. We lack momentum; after winning one match, something unexpected happens. It’s disappointing that the team seems like two different sides at home and away. Our second-half performance wasn’t great either, but we stayed focused, fought for second balls, and these small details helped us secure the win."