Ruben Amorim's appointment as Manchester United manager marks the club’s first major step toward breaking from its recent past under Erik ten Hag. Amorim, 39, arrives with a strong pedigree after winning the Portuguese league with Sporting CP, though his task at United will be far from straightforward. The club's current squad struggles with balance, particularly in attack, where goal-scoring has been a persistent issue.
Despite a promising start with three wins and one draw in his early matches, United's offensive woes are undeniable. Key forwards Marcus Rashford, Rasmus Højlund, and Joshua Zirkzee have only managed a combined two goals in the Premier League, and the team's big chance conversion rate—just 18.75%—is the worst in the league. Amorim’s challenge will be to reignite Rashford’s form, which saw him score 30 goals and provide 11 assists in the 2022-23 season but has since stalled.
Amorim, known for his tactical flexibility at Sporting, could introduce a 3-4-3 formation to United, similar to the system that worked well for him in Portugal. However, United’s squad is not ideally suited to this approach. The team lacks natural wingbacks like Amorim had at Sporting, with players such as Noussair Mazraoui and Diogo Dalot not ideally suited for the role. The defensive setup also raises concerns, with options like Harry Maguire and Jonny Evans—whose form and age could limit their effectiveness in a back three—leaving United vulnerable in defense.
In midfield, the absence of a dynamic presence to complement Manuel Ugarte’s intensity could pose a challenge. Casemiro, though experienced, is nearing his mid-30s, while younger players like Kobbie Mainoo will need time to develop. This lack of balance, coupled with a lack of clear identity under ten Hag, means Amorim will need to shift personnel and work effectively in the transfer market to bring in players who can execute his vision.
With a history of managerial instability at Old Trafford, Amorim faces immense pressure to restore Manchester United to its former glory. His long-term success will depend not just on his immediate tactical adjustments, but on the club’s ability to support him with the right players over the coming years. United’s ownership has set a long-term goal of winning the league by 2028, but Amorim will need to show progress well before that target to secure his future at the club.
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