Amorim Reflects on Tactical Changes Amid Player Injuries

Bruno Fernandes, the captain of Manchester United, was among seven senior players who missed the Boxing Day victory against Newcastle United.

Head coach Ruben Amorim stated that deviating from Manchester United’s established formation due to media pressure would have marked the end of his tenure. In the match against Newcastle, Amorim transitioned from a back three with wing-backs to a conventional back four complemented by two holding midfielders. He admitted that this formation evolved into a back six during the closing stages as his team secured only their second clean sheet of the season.

Despite previously asserting that no external influence could compel him to alter his system, Amorim maintains that flexibility in formations has always been part of his strategy. However, he insists that any changes should only be made when the team is performing well, as otherwise it may appear he is yielding to external pressures.

“When I arrived last season, I realized I might not have the right players for that system, but it was the start of a process,” he explained. “We were focused on building an identity. Today’s context is different. While we have a limited squad now, we must adapt to ensure the players comprehend the reasons behind our changes. This is not a response to pressure from the media or fans.”

Amorim highlighted the importance of timing when implementing system changes, stating, “When we are performing well within our existing system, that is the right moment to consider a shift. Our aim is to improve as a team, especially once all players return; we will not always rely on three defenders.”

Prior to their win against Newcastle, the team had secured only two victories in eight games, raising questions about Amorim’s assertion regarding their performance. He is indeed managing a strained squad, with seven senior players ruled out for the upcoming match against Wolverhampton Wanderers, a team yet to achieve a win this season. The injury list could grow if Mason Mount does not recover from the injury that forced him out of the Newcastle game at halftime.

Captain Bruno Fernandes is among those sidelined for the Wolves match, despite expressing a desire to return following his hamstring injury sustained against Aston Villa on December 21. “Bruno is already saying he needs to train,” Amorim remarked, “but there is no chance he will play against Wolves. You can quote me on that.”

Nonetheless, the 31-year-old is expected to contribute significantly, as he has been actively observing warm-ups and engaging with teammates even while injured. Amorim described Fernandes as a natural leader, stating, “He cannot be that person who, when not playing, remains silent. He is always vocal, which is why he is the captain. He exhibits both flaws and strengths. After recovering from games or treatment, he often watches the rest of the team practice. There is much happening behind the scenes that goes unnoticed.”

The specific timeline for Fernandes’ return, as well as that of injured players like Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire, remains uncertain. However, by the end of January, Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo are expected to return from participation in the Africa Cup of Nations.