Manchester United have swiftly initiated an internal investigation after details of manager Ruben Amorim's planned tactical formation were leaked to the media on the day of their Premier League clash with Bournemouth.
Leak Sparks Immediate Club Inquiry
The incident occurred on Monday, December 16, 2024, ahead of United's dramatic 4-4 draw at Old Trafford. Amorim, who has favoured a three-man defence since his arrival from Sporting Lisbon in November 2024, had planned a subtle shift to a back four for the match. The key change involved defender Diogo Dalot moving from a left wing-back role to a traditional full-back position.
However, news of this strategic tweak was made public on Monday afternoon, prompting significant concern within the club that Bournemouth could have gained an unfair advantage by receiving advance notice of United's approach. According to reports, United's hierarchy is now determined to identify the source of the leak to prevent a recurrence. A club spokesperson declined to comment when approached.
A Pattern of Problems at Old Trafford
This is not the first time Manchester United have been troubled by sensitive information becoming public under Amorim's tenure. The club was said to be 'furious' in September over reports claiming captain Bruno Fernandes was 'unhappy'. Furthermore, the team selection was leaked well before the Manchester derby in December 2024.
This pattern extends beyond the current manager. Previous regimes at Old Trafford, including those of Erik ten Hag, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, and Jose Mourinho, were also plagued by similar issues with confidential information reaching the press, often regarding squad matters and team news.
Amorim's Frustration After Thrilling Draw
When questioned about the leaked formation change after the match, a visibly concerned Amorim pointedly turned the question back on the media. "That is for you to discuss, not for me," he stated. "I know that you guys know that I trained this week with a back four. I don't know how, but that is a good thing for you guys to discuss this week."
The match itself was a Premier League classic. United took the lead twice through Amad and Casemiro, but were pegged back on each occasion by a resilient Bournemouth side. Bruno Fernandes scored a stunning free-kick to make it 3-3, before Matheus Cunha put United ahead once more. However, Eli Junior Kroupi's late equaliser secured a point for the Cherries in an eight-goal thriller.
Reflecting on the performance and the expectations at the club, Amorim added: "If you follow the club... you have not just the duty to try to win the games. The way you try to win the games is so important for the fans... I feel that they are desperate to be inspired when they come to Old Trafford. Today was inspiring... But in the end that's the feeling of frustration of not winning the game." The result leaves United in sixth place, with Bournemouth moving up to 13th.
