Under-pressure Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim marked his 50th game in charge with a crucial 2-0 victory over Sunderland at Old Trafford, putting a turbulent week behind his side. This win was particularly significant as United bounced back convincingly from last weekend's 3-1 defeat to Brentford.

The hosts enjoyed a perfect start, with Mason Mount giving them the lead after just eight minutes. Collecting a pass from Bryan Mbeumo, Mount finished into the far corner, marking the earliest United had scored in the Premier League since Marcus Rashford’s second-minute effort in Amorim’s first game last November. Manchester United demonstrated strong attacking intent, especially down the right flank, where Amad Diallo and Mbeumo both saw curling strikes saved by Sunderland goalkeeper Robin Roefs, who also made a tremendous save to tip Bruno Fernandes’ strike.

It seemed only a matter of time before the second goal arrived, and Benjamin Sesko was the player to convert, doubling the home side’s lead with a close-range volley. This was Sesko's second goal in as many games, following Sunderland's failure to deal with Diogo Dalot’s long throw. A key moment for Amorim’s tenure, United secured their first clean sheet of the season, a reward for handing a debut to the £18.1m goalkeeper Senne Lammens.

Just before half-time, Sunderland were initially awarded a penalty. However, a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) check overturned the decision, confirming that Sesko did not catch Trai Hume in the face with a high boot as initially thought, ensuring United maintained their two-goal advantage.

Despite a tenure often highlighted by negative statistics, Amorim now has several positive milestones to reflect upon. This victory marked United's third consecutive home win, a feat not achieved in over two years. Furthermore, Manchester United have lost just once at home to Sunderland in 31 meetings. Amorim also became the first United boss since Sir Alex Ferguson to win his 50th game at the helm. The second half featured fewer clear-cut chances, with Sunderland attacking with more purpose, but the Red Devils held on for the crucial win ahead of the international break. The significance of the victory was enough for the home fans to go through a rendition of their catchy ‘Ruben Amorim’ tribute song, which, amidst intense scrutiny over his longevity at Old Trafford, must have provided some comfort for the Portuguese coach.