Ruben Amorim's Tactical Revolution at Manchester United Unveiled

  • WorldScope
  • |
  • 01 November 2024
Post image

Ruben Amorim has consistently employed a three-at-the-back formation throughout his coaching journey. As Manchester United fans prepare to welcome him, there is a mix of excitement and concern; while he is recognized as a talented coach from outside Europe’s elite leagues, memories of previous managerial challenges linger. However, in Amorim, there stands a significant departure from Erik ten Hag’s approach. The main criticism of Ten Hag was the lack of coherent tactics and structure after two seasons in charge.

Amorim is known for being a meticulous and decisive tactical strategist. His style encompasses aggressive pressing, proactive possession play, and the flexibility to adapt formations, prominently featuring a dynamic 3-4-3 setup. This tactical identity will be ingrained in his players through rigorous training sessions. Yet, questions arise about how the current Manchester United squad, molded by Ten Hag’s philosophies, will adapt to Amorim’s radically different system.

Financial considerations also play a crucial role in Amorim’s appointment. With Manchester United reporting significant losses for the 2023-24 season and incurring costs related to Ten Hag’s departure and Amorim’s release clause, resources for new signings may be limited.

Amorim’s tactical flexibility allows him to adjust his strategy based on the match context: he can effectively employ deep defending or initiate high pressing while maintaining ball control or opting for long diagonals to exploit wide spaces. Sporting Lisbon excelled under his guidance last season, leading in both build-up and direct attacks.

Transitioning to a back three marks a significant shift for Manchester United, as this formation hasn’t been used since Louis van Gaal’s early tenure. The average positioning in recent matches illustrates Amorim’s structured approach, but it raises concerns about certain players adapting to this style. Matthijs de Ligt may find it challenging after struggling with similar formations at Bayern Munich.

In the current squad, Harry Maguire has experience with three-at-the-back systems, but overall inexperience could be problematic given that Amorim’s tactics leave space exposed on the flanks. This vulnerability could be further tested in the fast-paced Premier League environment.

Amorim places great emphasis on wing-backs who contribute significantly to offensive play. While United lacks natural wing-backs, players like Diogo Dalot could thrive if deployed further upfield despite some defensive shortcomings.

Additionally, Manuel Ugarte joins from Sporting as part of efforts to fill gaps previously exposed under Ten Hag’s leadership. Ugarte was instrumental at Sporting for his tackling and interception abilities and could become a key figure in Amorim’s setup alongside more fluid midfielders like Kobbie Mainoo or Mason Mount.

Amorim’s wingers are typically direct runners adept at pressing and creating chances. This stylistic preference contrasts with Bruno Fernandes’ free-roaming role; instead, Alejandro Garnacho may fit better into Amorim’s model due to his dribbling prowess.

Furthermore, Viktor Gyokeres has thrived under Amorim’s leadership as a direct forward capable of exploiting defensive weaknesses—qualities that align with how Hojlund might be utilized at United.

Amorim’s willingness to adjust tactics based on player strengths indicates that even those who may seem misaligned with his vision could find their roles redefined under his guidance while maintaining the core principles of his preferred system.

You May Also Like