Amorim Reflects on Tactics After Narrow Victory
After Manchester United’s 1-0 win over Newcastle, Ruben Amorim noted, “Sometimes you need to adapt, and there’s no tactic in that moment.” This statement came in response to his decision to employ a six-man defense late in the match.
His makeshift lineup featured Patrick Dorgu and Diogo Dalot positioned ahead of the full-backs, forming a solid defensive line. Previously, Amorim’s use of a back four has sparked interest, signaling a tactical evolution for his team.
In the past, he wouldn’t have considered such adjustments; however, he now feels more empowered to adapt after guiding United to fifth place in the league, with potential for further advancement as they approach a challenging 2025.
This newfound confidence stems from both results and team cohesion, which Amorim highlighted post-match. He expressed that this win was especially gratifying, emphasizing the importance of winning through teamwork and spirit, even when not performing at their best.
Commenting on his young squad’s resilience, he said, “We were suffering a lot. We were just trying to survive,” referring to the tense final moments against Newcastle. Despite the struggle, the team emerged victorious, suggesting that Amorim might also endure challenging times ahead.
Questions on Tactical Shift
Amorim’s decision to finally shift his formation led to a much-needed clean sheet, raising questions about why it took so long to implement changes after a year of rigid adherence to one strategy. The surprise shift to a back four created immediate impact, with players warming up in a back three style, making the lineup at kickoff a notable surprise.
In discussing his tactics, Amorim explained, “I felt that was the only way to create more danger, to have more opportunities by playing a back four.” However, the motivation behind this decision at this juncture remains puzzling.
Dorgu’s role in the win, where he thrived as a winger rather than as a wing-back, opens up discussions about how other players might have performed better in this new setup. With players like Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo, who may thrive in a winger position, the effectiveness of Amorim’s earlier strategies comes into question.
Ultimately, Amorim’s journey reflects a growing recognition of the need for adaptability, signifying a potential departure from his earlier inflexibility. The positive signs indicate a necessary commitment to flexibility in tactics moving forward.
