Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim is preparing for a pivotal period, with the Africa Cup of Nations and the January transfer window set to test his squad's depth. The Red Devils face a tough trip to an in-form Aston Villa this Sunday, fresh from a dramatic 4-4 draw with Bournemouth.
Amorim's Tactical Pivot Ahead of Villa Clash
The chaotic draw at Old Trafford last time out saw Amorim experiment with a significant tweak to his favoured 3-4-2-1 formation. With Amad playing in an advanced role and Diogo Dalot dropping deeper, the shape often resembled a back four. Amorim has since confirmed he has been working on alternative setups at the club's Carrington training ground.
This tactical flexibility will be crucial, as United are about to lose Amad, Bryan Mbeumo, and Noussair Mazraoui to the Africa Cup of Nations. Combined with Casemiro's suspension, this could force Amorim's hand into starting with a 4-3-3 or a 4-4-2 against Unai Emery's high-flying Villa side, who are on a nine-game winning streak.
January Priority: The £65m Semenyo Chase
United's primary focus in the transfer market is clear. Reports indicate Bournemouth winger Antoine Semenyo is the top target, with a £65 million release clause becoming active at the start of January. The club had cooled interest last summer when the Cherries demanded £80m, but Amorim remains a huge admirer, recently labelling the 25-year-old a "special player".
Crucially, Semenyo's nation, Ghana, did not qualify for AFCON, meaning he would be available throughout January if signed. The Red Devils face competition from Premier League rivals Tottenham, Liverpool, and Manchester City for his signature. Semenyo could solve United's issues on the left wing or at left wing-back.
Squad Overhaul: Identifying the Outgoings
To facilitate new signings, United are prepared to listen to offers for several underperforming players. The club is reportedly open to selling Joshua Zirkzee, Manuel Ugarte, and Tyrell Malacia. Zirkzee, a £36.5m signing in 2024, has struggled to adapt, while Ugarte has similarly disappointed since his £42m move from PSG.
There is also growing concern over the future of academy graduate Kobbie Mainoo. The 20-year-old midfielder is increasingly frustrated by his lack of game time under Amorim. His request for a loan move last summer was rejected, but his situation is becoming a recurring theme this season.
As the festive fixtures pile up and the transfer window approaches, Amorim's decisions in the coming weeks could define Manchester United's season. The quest for Champions League football hinges on navigating this period of significant change and potential reinforcement.
