Top 10 key changes at Manchester United under coach Rúben Amorim
Known for his innovative tactics and focus on long-term development, the Portuguese manager has implemented changes that are beginning to show results. Below are the 10 key areas of improvement, along with data insights, his preferred lineup, and potential squad adjustments.
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| Ruben Amorim is one of the most exciting and highly rated young coaches in European football. |
1. Emphasis on Youth Development
Amorim has a track record of promoting young talent, and at United, he has followed suit. Players like Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo have seen increased minutes on the pitch, with Garnacho already contributing with 3 goals and 5 assists this season. Amorim’s strategy aligns with United's history of nurturing young stars, and the youth pipeline continues to flourish under his watch.
2. Dynamic Tactical System
Amorim’s preferred system is a 3-4-3 formation, which offers both defensive solidity and attacking flexibility. This setup has allowed players like Luke Shaw and Diogo Dalot to thrive as wingbacks, combining defensive responsibilities with attacking contributions. Under this formation, United’s possession stats have improved to 56% per game, compared to last season’s average of 51%, and they now average 15.2 shots per game, a slight increase.
3. Revitalized Pressing Game
Amorim has instilled a high-pressing philosophy, with United now ranked 4th in the Premier League for pressures in the attacking third. This aggressive approach has resulted in 7 goals scored directly from turnovers, showcasing the effectiveness of Amorim’s pressing system. Players like Mason Mount and Casemiro have been key to winning the ball back quickly.
4. Focus on Team Spirit and Unity
The players have reported a stronger sense of unity under Amorim, with the manager emphasizing collaboration and mutual support. This has been visible on the pitch, where improved team chemistry has contributed to a 76% pass completion rate in the final third, up from last season's 70%.
5. Player-Specific Development Plans
Amorim has introduced tailored training regimes for each player. For example, Marcus Rashford, who scored 30 goals last season, has been focusing on off-the-ball movement and decision-making, while Harry Maguire has been working on improving his composure in possession. Rashford has already netted 8 goals in 15 matches this season, reflecting his continued improvement.
6. Smart Recruitment Strategy
Amorim’s transfer targets are based on tactical fit rather than big names. Signings like Pedro Gonçalves from Sporting CP and Gonçalo Inácio, a versatile center-back, have bolstered United's squad. Inácio, in particular, has a 92% pass completion rate, making him a key player in Amorim’s buildup play.
7. Improved Match Preparation
Under Amorim, United’s preparation for games has been meticulous. The team has conceded fewer goals in the first 15 minutes of matches this season (2 goals) compared to the same period last season (5 goals), reflecting better readiness from the start.
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| Amorim’s backroom team will be confirmed later down the line, with his first match in charge being the Premier League trip to Ipswich on November 24. |
8. Increased Role of Analytics
Amorim has integrated advanced analytics into every aspect of the team’s performance. For instance, expected goals (xG) metrics have been used to refine attacking strategies, resulting in an xG of 1.85 per game, up from 1.5 last season. Defensive analytics have also helped reduce individual errors, with United keeping 4 clean sheets in the last 10 games.
9. Promoting Positivity in the Media
Amorim’s composed demeanor during press conferences has helped ease pressure on the players. His focus on long-term goals and measured responses have built trust among fans, reducing negative headlines that often distract the team.
10. Enhanced Fitness and Conditioning
The team’s injury list has decreased significantly, thanks to Amorim’s fitness protocols. As of now, United has only 3 players sidelined, compared to an average of 7 injured players during the same period last season. This improvement has ensured a more consistent starting XI.
Amorim’s Preferred Starting XI
Based on performances and tactical fit, the lineup Amorim frequently opts for is:
Formation: 3-4-3
- Goalkeeper: André Onana
- Center-Backs: Gonçalo Inácio, Raphaël Varane, Lisandro Martínez
- Wingbacks: Luke Shaw (LWB), Diogo Dalot (RWB)
- Midfielders: Casemiro, Bruno Fernandes
- Forwards: Marcus Rashford, Rasmus Højlund, Alejandro Garnacho
This lineup emphasizes balance, youth, and high energy in both defense and attack.
