"I will not change my perspective on the game. I am very clear about that," said coach Ruben Amorim after Manchester United lost 1-3 at home to Brighton. This defeat was the "Red Devils" their sixth home defeat at Old Trafford in the Premier League this year.
Amorim's determination to apply the 3-4-2-1 formation has brought him many successes at Sporting, no matter the price. "The players will have to suffer, I apologize, the fans will have to suffer. I have a way to do things, I know it will bring results" - the Portuguese strategist affirmed.
At the same time, Tottenham are also weakening and suffered a 2-3 loss to Everton. They conceded three goals in the first half against their second worst attack in the Premier League this season.
Ange Postecoglou has flexible squad when playing with 3 defenders at Goodison Park before changing at half-time. However, the all-out attack style of play exposed too many gaps in Spurs' defense.
Amorim will point to his remarkable achievements while working in Portugal as evidence to show why he should continue to pursue his philosophy. And remember, Man United appointed Amorim for that.
Similarly, Postecoglou also pointed out that he could not have moved from Australia to the Premier League without a clear philosophy.
Before taking charge of Tottenham, Postecoglou had said he would not change his approach, regardless of the situation. Even though Spurs are leading by 1 goal in the final stages of an important match. The Australian has not wavered since then, despite injuries ruining Tottenham's defence.
"In any sport, when I see teams breaking the traditional mold, that is when people really feel worried" - Postecoglou shared at a pre-season press conference at Spurs' training ground in August 2023.
"It's not guaranteed to work. Everything can melt into smoke and end in tears. But when you make people feel uncomfortable and uncomfortable with what they see, you may be making a new breakthrough. And I like that in everything in life.
That is where special things exist and that is the space I am in" - Postecoglou affirmed.
Unfortunately for Postecoglou and Spurs, their current position is 15th in the Premier League.
Man United's situation is not much better, with Tottenham only 2 places above them. In general, both teams are far from where their coaches want to go.
This is a testing moment for Postecoglou and Amorim's commitment to their ideals. The question is, would things be better if they tried something different right now, at least in the short term?
Only time will tell whether their stubbornness is right.
