When Ruben Amorim took the helm at Manchester United in November 2024, the club was in disarray. The midfield lacked cohesion, creativity, and control, leading to inconsistent performances and a slide down the Premier League table. Amorim, renowned for his tactical acumen and success at Sporting CP, was tasked with revitalizing a team desperate for identity and direction.
This article explores how Amorim has begun reshaping United’s engine room, turning a once-disjointed midfield into a more dynamic and balanced unit. From his emphasis on structure and pressing to his eye for untapped talent, Amorim’s early influence is already changing how United plays, and more importantly, how they compete.
Implementing a New Tactical Framework
Amorim introduced his preferred 3-4-3 formation, emphasizing fluidity, pressing, and positional play. This system requires midfielders who are not only defensively solid but also capable of initiating attacks and maintaining possession under pressure. At Sporting CP, Amorim’s midfield was the engine of the team, and he sought to replicate this at United.
Manuel Ugarte joined Manchester United from Paris Saint-Germain in August 2024. The transfer was valued at €50 million, with potential add-ons increasing the fee to €60 million Although Ugarte and Amorim did not previously work together at Sporting CP, Ugarte’s playing style aligns well with Amorim’s tactical philosophy.
Alongside Ugarte, Bruno Fernandes was given a more advanced role. It lets him to influence the game higher up the pitch and contribute to the team’s attacking endeavors.
To make the system work, Amorim also focused on improving the understanding between midfield and defense. Players were trained to stay compact when defending and spread out quickly when attacking. This balance helps the team control the pace of the game and limits gaps that opponents can exploit.
Impact on Performance and Perception
While the results have been mixed, there have been signs of improvement. United’s midfield now exhibits better structure and understanding which leads to more controlled performances against top-tier opponents.
The team’s ability to press effectively and transition quickly has improved, resulting in more competitive matches and a renewed sense of purpose on the pitch.
Analysts and bettors are starting to take note of United’s tactical improvements. It’s even begun to show in the englishpremier league odds which are betting odds set by sportsbooks or platforms for matches, outcomes, and events within the EPL. It is one of the most followed football leagues in the world.
Fans have also started to feel more hopeful. The team looks more confident during games, and players seem to understand their roles better. While there’s still work to be done, this kind of progress helps rebuild trust between the team and supporters, especially after a shaky start to the season.
Challenges and Adaptations
Despite a clear vision, Ruben Amorim’s transition at Manchester United has faced significant hurdles. The squad, assembled under previous managers with varying philosophies, has struggled to adapt to Amorim’s tactical demands. His preferred 3-4-2-1 formation relies heavily on wing-backs to provide width and support both defense and attack. However, players unfamiliar with this system often find themselves exposed.
A stark example of these challenges was evident in United’s recent 4-1 defeat to Newcastle United. In this match, the team struggled defensively, with debutant goalkeeper Altay Bayindir making critical errors. Despite a brief equalizer from Alejandro Garnacho, United collapsed in the second half. This loss marked their 14th league defeat of the season, underscoring the difficulties in implementing Amorim’s system with the current squad.
Amorim has faced criticism for sticking to his system, especially when results dip. But he remains firm in his philosophy, saying the pain of losing matters more than outside opinions. He urges the team to learn from setbacks and keep looking ahead.
Looking Ahead
Amorim’s project at Manchester United is just getting started. The basics are in place, but there’s still work to do. He’ll need the right signings, especially at wing-back and in midfield, to make his system really click. Just as important, the current squad has to keep buying into his ideas and adapting to the demands.
In the end, Amorim’s impact on United’s midfield is clear. His strong vision and belief in his style are already shaping a more unified and competitive team. There’s still a long road ahead, but the progress so far gives fans real reason to believe in what’s coming.
