Pressure is mounting on Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim as internal concerns over his tactical approach have been revealed, prompting direct intervention from the club's leadership.
Hierarchy Steps In After Rival's Blueprint
Senior figures at Manchester United were compelled to act after comments from Fulham's staff laid bare the predictability of Amorim's preferred system. The catalyst was a frustrating 1-1 draw at Old Trafford in August, where United conceded a late equaliser after taking an early lead.
Post-match analysis from Fulham manager Marco Silva and midfielder Alex Iwobi proved alarmingly insightful for United's decision-makers. Director of recruitment Christopher Vivell was reportedly so concerned that he circulated their quotes in a staff WhatsApp group.
"We knew how they defend and we know they like to squeeze from the back five," Silva explained, detailing how his team planned to overload United's midfield. Iwobi added in a TV interview: "We knew that we would be able to get behind their two midfielders and that their centre backs would want to jump – we exploited that today."
Amorim's Rocky Tenure and Tactical Stubbornness
Amorim, who succeeded Erik ten Hag in November 2024, has endured a challenging start to his United career. The club finished a dismal 15th in the Premier League in the 2024/25 season and lost the Europa League final to Tottenham.
This campaign offered some hope, with United currently sixth and just three points off the top four, despite an early Carabao Cup exit to Grimsby Town on penalties. However, performances have remained a persistent worry, with Amorim steadfastly defending his 3-4-3 formation – a system he famously used at Sporting CP.
A Brief Shift and Reversion to Type
The internal pressure eventually led to a notable tactical departure last month against Bournemouth. Amorim abandoned his rigid back-three for a more flexible four-at-the-back system, aiming to shore up a leaky defence. The match ended in a thrilling 4-4 draw, with the Portuguese coach earning praise for his in-game adjustments.
This adaptable approach was maintained for a narrow 1-0 Boxing Day victory over Newcastle. However, United reverted to their previous tactics in a disappointing 1-1 draw with bottom-side Wolverhampton Wanderers, raising fresh questions about consistency and strategic direction.
The spotlight now turns to United's upcoming fixtures, starting with a crucial clash against rivals Leeds United this Sunday. This is followed by trips to Burnley and an FA Cup tie with Brighton, all building towards the highly anticipated Manchester derby at Old Trafford on 17 January.
