Manchester United’s 3-0 victory over Leicester City at Old Trafford marked the end of Ruud van Nistelrooy’s interim stint as manager, with Ruben Amorim expected to formally take over soon. Amorim arrives with an impressive reputation from Sporting CP, where he deployed a high-intensity 3-4-3 system that blends robust defense with a fluid attack. The Portuguese manager hinted at retaining his preferred formation, aiming for an organized and aggressive style that could redefine United’s identity.
Here’s a look at Amorim’s likely starting lineup and tactical approach for United’s trip to Ipswich on November 24.
Amorim’s 3-4-3 Formation Explained
Building from the Back
Amorim’s system calls for proactive buildup from the back, with the goalkeeper acting as a playmaking option. United’s Andre Onana, known for his distribution, would be pivotal, joining the backline to create a 3-2 structure when United play out from deep. This provides stability and keeps United in control under pressure.
The back three will likely consist of Lisandro Martinez on the left, Matthijs de Ligt centrally, and Victor Lindelof or Jonny Evans on the right. Martinez’s ability to carry the ball out and Lindelof’s passing range would allow United to break lines and link the defense with midfield seamlessly.
Midfield Double Pivot
Amorim’s double pivot focuses on balance and control. Casemiro or Ugarte and Christian Eriksen or Kobbie Mainoo are ideal candidates. Casemiro provides ball-winning strength, while Eriksen’s passing and Mainoo’s energy could aid transitions.
A notable absence here is a traditional No. 10, meaning Bruno Fernandes would likely play a wide right or left role, drifting centrally to create chances. Amorim values the tactical flexibility of his players, and Fernandes’ positioning would allow United to maintain a solid defensive shape while maximizing attacking creativity.
High Build-Up Play: 1-3-2-5 Formation
In attack, Amorim’s 3-4-3 morphs into a 1-3-2-5 structure. United’s backline would push high, squeezing the space between the midfield and defense. This facilitates intense counter-pressing to regain possession, with one midfielder dropping deep to recycle possession and link play.
Under Amorim, United would likely have more players advancing into the final third, increasing the number of attackers around the box. This approach, along with aggressive pressing, can overwhelm the opposition’s defense, setting up more scoring opportunities.
Defensive Solidity: 1-5-2-3 Shape in Transition
Defensively, Amorim’s 3-4-3 transitions into a compact 1-5-2-3 shape. This formation prioritizes keeping opponents out wide, closing off central spaces to disrupt buildup play. The back three, supported by wingbacks tracking back, form a solid line, while the central midfielders provide an additional shield.
This setup would allow United to press high without sacrificing stability, a hallmark of Amorim’s philosophy. His focus on defensive organization ensures that United’s aggressive approach in attack is balanced by tactical discipline in defense.
Predicted Lineup Against Ipswich
- Goalkeeper: Andre Onana
- Back Three: Lisandro Martinez, Matthijs de Ligt, Victor Lindelof
- Wingbacks: Diogo Dalot, Noussair Mazraoui
- Midfield Pivot: Casemiro, Christian Eriksen
- Front Three: Rasmus Hojlund, Amad Diallo, Bruno Fernandes
Amorim’s appointment brings with it a unique opportunity for Manchester United to adopt a fresh, high-intensity style that’s both exciting and strategically sound. The 3-4-3 formation under Amorim aims to unleash the Red Devils’ attacking potential while embedding a disciplined defensive structure. Although the transition will take time, United fans can look forward to a reinvigorated side that reflects Amorim’s tactical innovation and attacking philosophy.
