As Manchester United fans anticipate the arrival of highly regarded coach Ruben Amorim from outside Europe’s traditional power leagues, there are both excitement and echoes of familiarity in the air. However, Amorim promises a significant departure from Erik ten Hag’s approach, particularly in one vital aspect.
The main criticism of Ten Hag was that, after two and a half seasons, the team’s playing style remained unclear and disorganized. In contrast, Amorim is recognized for his sharp tactical mind and decisive gameplay. Known for employing strategies like a relentless press, proactive possession, and a dynamic 3-4-3 formation, Amorim’s methods will be ingrained in the squad through rigorous training.
Concerns do arise, particularly regarding how a team molded in Ten Hag’s image will adapt to Amorim’s back three and entirely different tactical framework. This transition may not suit all players.
With United reporting a net loss of £113 million for 2023-24, along with a £15 million compensation for Ten Hag’s dismissal and an £8 million payment to activate Amorim’s release clause—plus the £200 million spent on summer transfers—his budget for new signings in January is likely to be limited.
Winners and Losers of Amorim’s Appointment
Defensive Adjustments: De Ligt, Maguire, and a Back Three
Amorim’s flexible tactical style allows for adaptability; he can play deep or push high, utilizing both possession-based and direct attacking strategies. Last season, Sporting topped the charts in Portugal for both build-up and direct attacks.
However, the switch to a 3-4-3 formation poses challenges, marking a return to a back three for Manchester United for the first time since Louis van Gaal’s early tenure in 2014. Matthijs de Ligt, the marquee summer signing, may find this particularly challenging, as he struggled with a back three at Bayern Munich and was dropped from the Netherlands squad early in the 2022 World Cup.
Harry Maguire is the only United player familiar with a back three, raising concerns about inexperience. Amorim’s aggressive high line could leave gaps that the fast-paced Premier League may exploit, as seen during Manchester City’s 5-0 win over Sporting in 2022.
Yet, shifting from a four-man to a five-man defense could offer defensive advantages. Last season, United allowed the second-highest number of shots among Europe’s top leagues (667), while Sporting conceded the fewest shots in the Primeira Liga (269).
Wing-Back Dynamics: Dalot, Amad, and Attack
Wing-backs play a crucial role in Amorim’s tactics, stretching the play and allowing wingers to drift infield. United currently lacks natural wing-backs, but Amorim may convert players more adept at attacking.
Diogo Dalot, who created 38 chances last season, might be pushed forward, though he has faced criticism for defensive lapses. Alternatively, Amorim could take a bold step by utilizing young talent from United’s academy, such as Amad Diallo, who could compete for a wing-back position.
Amorim also aims to address the midfield gap that plagued Ten Hag’s squad. Enzo Ugarte, who excelled at Sporting, could be a key figure, leading from the midfield with his impressive tackling and interception stats.
Last season, United’s opponents executed 620 transitions into the final third, the highest in the Premier League, indicating a pressing gap that Ugarte was brought in to fill. In contrast, Sporting’s pressing intensity outperformed many teams, setting the stage for a more coordinated effort under Amorim.
Attacking Strategy: Wingers and Frontmen
Amorim’s wingers are typically direct runners who can press and navigate defenses effectively. This is a stark contrast to Bruno Fernandes, a traditional number 10 whose free-roaming style may not align with Amorim’s structured approach. Alejandro Garnacho, known for his dribbling ability, could thrive in this setup, while Marcus Rashford, who excelled in the previous season, will need to regain his form.
Viktor Gyokeres has been a standout under Amorim, scoring 41 goals in 42 league games through targeted runs and pressing. Rasmus Hojlund, United’s new frontman, could be utilized similarly, benefiting from Amorim’s direct style of play.
Ultimately, Amorim’s willingness to adapt his tactics to fit his players suggests that even those not fitting the mold may find a place in his system, aside from the fixed structure of the back three.