A new vision is being cultivated at Manchester United, with the exciting Ruben Amorim expected to implement significant structural changes at the home of the Premier League’s sleeping giants.
The Portuguese coach, renowned for his tactical style and success at Sporting Lisbon, has already suggested he plans to use his trusted 3-4-2-1 formation at Old Trafford.
At 39, he is the Reds’ youngest appointment since Wilf McGuinness in 1969 and the sixth permanent arrival since Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure.
Amorim’s impending commencement of work on the Carrington training pitches has been slightly delayed due to visa processing, although this is expected to be finalised shortly.
The swift and decisive manner in which United swooped for the former Sporting boss was impressive – and supporters and pundits alike are eagerly awaiting his debut game away at Ipswich Town on November 24.
Amorim’s tactical philosophy
Following confirmation that the former Braga and Casa Pia boss would join the Red Devils, the English media probed for answers regarding the strategies he would attempt to implement upon arrival.
When quizzed about his game model, the Lisbon native hinted that he would introduce his tried and tested formation – with three central defenders and two wing-backs.
Naturally, the prospect is intriguing when considering the many differences from United’s more traditional structure, with two centre-halves and two orthodox full-backs.
Significantly, he stated his approach could also adapt based on injuries and availability – although he aims to rely on the system that has brought him so much success in recent years back in his homeland.
“I know how I am going to play in the beginning,” Amorim told the adoring press.
“You have to start with a structure you know. Then you adapt to the players and their abilities to defend or attack.”
The remarks have excited supporters about a potential new play-style and fresh approach for a side that had seemingly stagnated under its predecessor, Erik ten Hag.
Amorim’s philosophy proved extremely successful in Portugal, where he led Sporting to two league titles between 2020 and 2024.
He also won the Taca da Liga twice with Leoes and once with his former team, Braga.
An appointment that offers hope
The Ineos hierarchy is banking on Amorim’s disciplined style to bring stability back to the English giants.
Recently, the side has displayed some signs of improvement under interim coach Ruud van Nistelrooy – with the Dutchman earning three wins and a draw in his four-game spell in temporary charge.
Amorim has allegedly said that he wants ‘intensity’ from his players, which has been lacking and regularly scrutinised by frustrated supporters.
The United faithful are hopeful of a fresh approach that can finally deliver the consistency many have thirsted for since Sir Alex retired over a decade ago.
The supporters will also be optimistic that the change in formation and tactical set-up could jolt the potential of this talented squad and finally spark something special.
Patience will be required, as it will take time to build and mould a side in the Portuguese image and inevitably challenge on all fronts, domestically and in Europe.
Let’s wait and see how it plays out.
How do you think Ruben Amorim will do in the Manchester United hot seat?
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