Rúben Amorim Tactics At Manchester United 2024/2025: Can He Fix Man United? – Tactical Analysis

Since Sir Alex Ferguson left the club, Manchester United have had no less than 10 managers, including interim appointments, with Rúben Amorim now becoming the latest to take on the role.

Despite a series of managerial changes, Man United have struggled to find a coach who can restore them to their former glory — reaching UEFA Champions League finals and dominating the Premier League.

Now, it’s up to Amorim to bring stability and take on the increasingly daunting task of leading the Red Devils back to their glory days.

In this tactical analysis, we provide an in-depth analysis of Amorim’s coaching philosophy and tactics and how we expect him to set up at Man United.

Rúben Amorim Tactics & Philosophy 

Rúben Amorim’s style of play revolves around a 3-4-3 formation, which he plans to bring to Manchester United.

This setup, rarely seen in English football or United’s history, is designed to control possession with a disciplined build-up strategy.

Amorim emphasises vertical play and prefers versatile players who can adapt to multiple roles in different scenarios.

Under his approach, one-dimensional players may struggle to secure their positions.

Amorim has a reputation for developing young talent, as seen at Sporting CP, where some of his most important players are the wing-backs.

These players are given the freedom to push high up the pitch, covering large areas and integrating into central positions or making wide runs.

His style relies heavily on vertical passing and breaking lines, requiring centre-backs capable of precise forward passes and quick-holding midfielders who can make decisions on the fly.

How Will Ruben Amorim Fit In At Manchester United?

Amorim has a great selection of players to work with at Manchester United.

While the squad has talent, it’s currently an unbalanced, individualistic group lacking structure and direction.

Amorim’s primary task will be to utilise the talent within the existing squad by:

• Fully maximising player roles and potential
• Focusing on individual player development
• Establishing a clear vision and style of play within the team

Amorim brings all three of these qualities, making him one of the best managerial choices for United.

The club should avoid bringing in any new transfers this January.

Instead, let Amorim play around with the current squad.

By the end of the season, United will have a clearer picture of the areas that genuinely need strengthening.

Only then should new transfers be considered.

Rúben Amorim Out Of Possession Tactics

Out of possession, Amorim’s teams are adept at shifting into two tactical setups: either a classic 4-4-2 or a 5-4-1 formation.

In the 4-4-2 setup, as shown in the first image, his team maintains a compact shape with an extremely narrow backline.

Unlike typical setups where full-backs provide width, Amorim prefers them to stay closer to the centre, providing extra cover.