Just as rumors of an unthinkable relegation emerged, Manchester United offered competence.
The world expected Liverpool to win at Anfield last Sunday, but the new and improved Red Devils gave as good as they got on Merseyside, delivering good value for money in a 2-2 draw.
United undoubtedly benefited from the gap between games and Amorim enjoyed his first full week’s break since the November international break ahead of Sunday’s FA Cup third round away to Arsenal.
The Red Devils were disastrously eliminated in their last meeting in north London and will be looking to avenge December’s defeat by inflicting misery on Mikel Arteta’s side.
This is how United could play at the Emirates.
TW: Andre Onana – While Onana had his problems in United’s goal, Altay Bayindir did nothing to suggest he can be trusted on such a big occasion.
CB: Leny Yoro – Ideally, Amorim wouldn’t change too much compared to the game against Liverpool, but Yoro is a strong contender to replace Matthijs de Ligt – a protagonist in both of the Reds’ goals last weekend.
CB: Harry Maguire – Maguire’s last-gasp miss at Anfield overshadowed another good performance from the Englishman. He will play a crucial role in helping Arsenal avoid set pieces.
CB: Lisandro Martinez – After his terrible performance against Newcastle, Martinez managed to make some redemption last weekend. His appearance on Merseyside showed what a significant role he could play in Amorim’s project.
RWB: Amad Diallo – Noussair Mazraoui could use a breather as Amad, who played only the second half at the Emirates in December, has moved into the full-back position, where he starred at the start of the new coach’s tenure.
CM: Manuel Ugarte – The combative Uruguayan is needed in Amorim’s pivot and goes into this game with his best performance in a United shirt.
CM: Kobbie Mainoo – The Chelsea-linked Mainoo hasn’t caused any excitement this season, but there have been signs in recent appearances that the young midfielder could return to the level of performance of his breakthrough season.
LWB: Diogo Dalot – Trent Alexander-Arnold made him look like a world beater last weekend, but Dalot faces a far tougher test against Jurrien Timber on Sunday.
AM: Bruno Fernandes – United always have a chance when Fernandes performs like he did against Liverpool. The Red Devils expect their captain to approach the big event consistently.
AM: Alejandro Garnacho – If Amorim decides to make a change at the top, he will need an alternative frontline exit. Garnacho provides the enthusiasm and speed needed to trouble Arsenal’s defense.
ST: Joshua Zirkzee – Rasmus Hojlund continues to fail under Amorim, potentially paving the way for Zirkzee’s return, just a few weeks after he was cheered on by fans 30 minutes into the 2-0 defeat to Newcastle.