Ruben Amorim is facing mounting pressure at Manchester United, and the clock may be ticking on his tenure. As the team grapples with a rocky start to the season, rumors swirl about possible departures – both for the manager and several players.

The Fallout: Who’s on the Chopping Block?

United invested in Amorim during the summer transfer window, but with the team's struggles becoming increasingly alarming, the future looks uncertain. If a managerial change occurs, here are five players who could find themselves surplus to requirements:

1. Patrick Dorgu: A Misfit in Transition?

Signed for £29.1 million in January, Dorgu was viewed as a perfect wing-back for Amorim's 3-4-2-1 formation. While he boasts impressive pace and ball-carrying skills, his end product has been underwhelming—just one assist in 24 appearances.

If a new manager prefers a more traditional back four, Dorgu's role could vanish. Though versatile, his track record as a one-on-one defender raises questions about his future.

2. Luke Shaw: From Veteran to Uncertainty?

As the longest-serving player at Old Trafford, Shaw's journey has been turbulent. Despite once being hailed as one of the Premier League's top left-backs, his injury woes have diminished his explosive style.

Shaw’s transition to left centre-back in Amorim's setup has garnered praise, but a managerial switch could jeopardize this adaptation, leaving his future hanging in the balance.

3. Harry Maguire: The System’s Golden Boy?

Maguire has thrived in Amorim's system, reminiscent of his success with England. Yet, the center-back has yet to find his footing this season, and if United shifts to a back four, competition for spots will intensify.

With his hefty contract and dwindling playing time, Maguire's future at the club looks uncertain.

4. Mason Mount: Talent Hampered by Injuries?

Mount's United career has been marred by injuries, a reality that even Amorim acknowledges. Despite being tailored for the left-sided number 10 role, his recent history of missing games could deter future managers from relying on him.

With Bruno Fernandes firmly in the mix, Mount may find himself competing for a spot that he can’t afford to miss.

5. Joshua Zirkzee: Prospects in Jeopardy?

Zirkzee, a signing from Bologna last summer, has yet to set the world alight, scoring only seven goals in 52 matches. In Amorim's system, he's played as an attacking midfielder, but a formation change could push him further down the pecking order.

Rumors of interest from Serie A clubs suggest that he might be looking for a new challenge.

The Road Ahead for Man Utd?

As the pressure mounts on Amorim, Manchester United may need to brace for significant changes. Whether the players mentioned above stay or go could hinge on the managerial landscape at Old Trafford. One thing's for certain: the coming weeks will be crucial for the club's future.