When Ruben Amorim came to Manchester United in November 2024, his reputation was widely known, especially for his tough tactical philosophy. Man United will play 3-4-2-1. And that will not change.
Amorim has achieved resounding success with this system at Sporting Lisbon and he was appointed on the condition that the method continues to be applied at Old Trafford. He has spent the past 14 months trying to realize it, before making a noteworthy comment on Christmas Eve.
We can play in a different way to maximize the ability of these players, because I have a feeling that if we want to operate 3-4-3 perfectly, we need to spend a lot of money and need time. I'm starting to understand that it won't happen, so maybe I have to adapt" - Amorim said.
In the end, they also realized the problem. Right in the next match, Man United won 1-0 against Newcastle. Amorim used a patchwork defense of four people including Lenny Yoro, Ayden Heaven, Tyler Fredricson and Tyrell Malacia.
But just a few days later, in the home match against Wolves, Amorim returned to the familiar routine, an option that Gary Neville called outdated. Joshua Zirkzee's opening goal came after a touch change, but a lackluster team - eroded by injury and influence from AFCON - still drew 1-1 right at Old Trafford.
In the context of the absence of Bruno Fernandes, Mason Mount, Kobbie Mainoo, Harry Maguire, Matthijs de Ligt, Bryan Mbeumo, Noussair Mazraoui and Amad, Amorim once showed that he was ready to adapt. However, when traveling to Elland Road, the Portuguese coach returned to his familiar framework. That was a proven option but also had a rigid appearance.
Amorim's starting lineup against Leeds includes up to six defenders and two defensive midfielders. Patrick Dorgu was pushed up to play as a number 10, while Zirkzee had to sit on the bench.
I'm just thinking about what we're going to face today, trying to help the team relax to win. We don't have many options, but we are ready to compete" - Amorim said when asked about personnel decisions before kick-off.
The first half was lackluster, when the away team prioritized defense against opponent pressure. It was not until the 63rd minute, when Zirkzee came on to replace Yoro, that the game really changed direction for Man United. The Dutch striker immediately made his mark with a quality pass for Matheus Cunha to finish easily, helping his team regain one point in the 1-1 draw.
Man United's recent decline in form largely stemmed from the injury crisis coinciding with the time of AFCON. Amorim was forced to manage with a thin force, so he chose pragmatism above all else.
However, it feels like he only really realized the necessity of adapting after being informed that the club would not fund the January transfer window.
I just want to make it clear that I will be the manager of this team, not just a coach. I said it very clearly from the beginning. This role will end in 18 months, and then everyone will continue their path" - Amorim affirmed.
