Following the dismissal of Erik Ten Hag, Manchester United finds itself at a crossroads, with Ruben Amorim emerging as a frontrunner for the managerial role. The Portuguese manager, currently helming Sporting CP, is celebrated for his innovative tactical approach and dynamic playing style, which has reinvigorated the Portuguese club. In this article, we examine how Amorim’s style could transform Manchester United’s structure on the pitch, with his approach promising an exciting and balanced blend of defensive resilience and attacking prowess.
Amorim’s Tactical Framework
Amorim’s hallmark at Sporting CP has been his ability to create high-intensity, possession-oriented play using a flexible 3-4-3 system. His teams maintain a high backline, press vigorously, and demonstrate fluid transitions. Here’s a look at how Amorim’s strategy could adapt to Manchester United’s roster.
Building from the Back: 3-4-3 and the Role of the Keeper
In Amorim’s style, the goalkeeper takes on a more active role in the build-up. At United, this could see the goalkeeper positioned between the center-backs to create a 3-2 structure in the low build-up phase. This setup not only aids in distributing the ball out of high-pressure situations but also allows United to control play from deep. This is something Ten Hag also wanted to implement at United with the signing of Onana but the Goalkeeper was never able to showcase his playmaking style as there was no consistent tactical approach United displayed.
The back three would likely consist of de Ligt, Lisandro Martinez, and perhaps Harry Maguire, all of whom possess the technical ability to progress the ball. Their positioning would grant Amorim’s system a balance between defense and the fluid movement forward.
Midfield: Preference for a double pivot
Amorim’s preference for a double pivot emphasizes compactness and control. This midfield structure includes two deep lying defensive midfielders positioned in a staggered formation, ensuring one is always available to shield the backline. At United, Casemiro/Ugarte and Eriksen/Mainoo could serve as the two midfielders, providing stability, ball-winning ability and creativity.
Amorim’s system doesn’t have a place for a number 10 like Bruno Fernandes but considering the Portuguese’s attacking quality, he would most likely start of the right and drift into central areas.
High Build-up Play: A 1-3-2-5 Formation in Attack
When pushing forward, Amorim’s formation transforms into a 1-3-2-5 setup, with a high backline allowing for intense counter-pressing. Manchester United’s defensive line would push up, reducing the space between the midfield and defense to ensure they regain possession quickly upon losing it.
This high build-up shape would enable United to create passing options from multiple angles, with one holding midfielder dropping deep to recycle possession and link play.
Attack in the Final Third: Dominating the Box
A hallmark of Amorim’s system is the emphasis on getting multiple players into the box, often aiming for 4-5 players in the penalty area. United could expect to see more players aggressively moving into scoring positions when in possession, creating overloads that force the opposing defense into split-second decisions.
In these scenarios, Amorim often deploys underlapping runs to unlock defenses. Bruno Fernandes, known for his off-ball intelligence, could take advantage of this tactic, pulling defenders out of position and opening lanes for other players to take advantage of the spaces opened up.
Defensive Solidarity: Compact Pressing in a 1-5-2-3 Formation
When defending, Amorim’s system reverts to a 1-5-2-3 shape, where compact pressing and forcing opponents wide are prioritized. The back three form a cohesive wall, with the wingbacks dropping into defensive roles, while the central midfielders clog the center to restrict the opponent’s build-up play. The compact nature of this defensive shape makes it challenging for opponents to penetrate through the middle. This setup also allows United to press high without sacrificing defensive solidity, ideal for Amorim’s commitment to ball recovery.
Man United’s 3-4-3 formation under Ruben Amorim
If appointed, Ruben Amorim’s tactical philosophy could rejuvenate Manchester United’s gameplay. His balanced, high-intensity approach to defense and his dynamic, numbers-oriented attack would bring a level of tactical sophistication that has been missing since Sir Alex Ferguson’s tenure. While it remains to be seen whether Amorim’s style would work as seamlessly in the Premier League as it has in Portugal, the prospect of a more organized, aggressive, and thrilling Manchester United under Amorim’s guidance is tantalizing for fans and players alike.