Manchester United icon Jaap Stam has offered to join Ruben Amorim’s coaching team to address the club’s defensive struggles.
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Despite Amorim taking charge from Erik ten Hag, United have kept just one clean sheet in his first nine matches, highlighting a persistent defensive frailty.
Amorim, who brought five members of his backroom staff from Sporting Lisbon to Old Trafford, faces mounting pressure after a dismal 3-0 loss to Bournemouth.
Among his team are assistant head coach Carlos Fernandes, first-team coaches Adelio Candido and Emanuel Ferro, goalkeeper coach Jorge Vital, and physical performance coach Paulo Barreira.
Stam, a key figure in Sir Alex Ferguson’s 1999 treble-winning squad, expressed disappointment over not being approached by the club for a coaching role since his retirement in 2007.
Speaking to Sports Lens, the Dutchman voiced his desire to help restore United’s defensive solidity and challenge for trophies once more.
“I’d love to coach at Manchester United, but they’ve never called me,” Stam said. “I think anyone associated with the club dreams of coming back to help. I’ve coached at other levels and believe I could improve the defence. If Amorim is interested, I’d be open to discussions.”
Stam also acknowledged the significant changes at United under Amorim, who is still determining which players align with his system.
He emphasized the need for patience during this transitional phase, though he admitted the pressure to win remains high.
Meanwhile, Marcus Rashford has sparked speculation about a potential departure after revealing his desire for “a new challenge.” Stam sympathized with Rashford’s perspective, citing the forward’s inconsistency as a contributing factor to the criticism he faces.
“I understand why Rashford might want a fresh start,” Stam explained. “Sometimes, a new environment can rejuvenate your career.
But I feel he hasn’t consistently delivered for United, and it would be better to stay and prove himself. Leaving might seem like the easy option, but I’d like to see him fight harder on the pitch.”
Stam believes United should target at least an eighth-place finish and European qualification this season, though he lamented how far the club has fallen from its trophy-challenging days.
“Manchester United should be fighting for the Champions League, not just the top half of the table,” Stam said. “But reaching eighth and securing a European spot—perhaps through a cup—must be the minimum goal. Amorim’s system needs time, but consistency is key. United can’t afford to win one week and lose the next.”
He remains optimistic, pointing to United’s win over Manchester City as a morale booster. However, he emphasized the need for sustained improvement, urging Amorim’s players to adapt quickly and deliver consistent performances to restore the club’s stature.
