Ruben Amorim’s eagerly awaited debut as Manchester United manager comes this Sunday with a visit to Ipswich Town’s Portman Road. Despite facing a newly promoted team with just one league victory this season, the match carries plenty of intrigue and narrative threads to follow.
Here are the key factors to keep an eye on as Amorim begins his Premier League journey:
1. Establishing an Identity
In his first interview as United manager, Amorim declared, “Day one, we will start with our identity.” He promised fans they would see a clear idea of how the team intends to play.
Amorim’s previous work at Sporting CP showcased a dynamic approach with high pressing, quick transitions, and creative attacking play. His ability to implement this philosophy at United will be under the spotlight. The Red Devils have struggled for attacking cohesion this season, scoring just 12 league goals—the same as Ipswich. Amorim’s task is to reignite a spark that’s been missing.
2. A New Formation?
Speculation has swirled around Amorim’s preference for a back-three formation, which United have scarcely used since Louis van Gaal’s tenure. Training sessions this week featured a three-man defense, signaling a potential shift in tactics.
A key decision will be the choice of wing-backs. Amorim has previously deployed wingers in these roles to add attacking thrust, which could mean roles for Alejandro Garnacho or Amad Diallo. Alternatively, he might opt for traditional full-backs like Diogo Dalot or Noussair Mazraoui to provide stability. The setup on Sunday will offer clues about Amorim’s tactical philosophy.
3. Midfield Overhaul
Amorim has already pinpointed one of United’s biggest weaknesses: “We lose the ball too often,” he noted in his introductory press conference. Bruno Fernandes, the team captain, has often been criticized for both risky passing and lack of defensive tracking. How Amorim integrates Fernandes—or if he decides to move in another direction—will be revealing.
One player to watch is Manuel Ugarte, who thrived under Amorim at Sporting as a defensive enforcer. If Ugarte becomes the cornerstone of United’s midfield, his partner will need to bring balance and technical prowess. With Kobbie Mainoo returning to fitness, Amorim has a variety of options to explore.
4. Returns from Injury
Several key players who have been sidelined with injuries could feature this weekend. Leny Yoro, a summer signing yet to make his competitive debut, trained in a back-three with Jonny Evans and Luke Shaw, the latter also nearing a return after a long layoff. Tyrell Malacia’s availability further boosts Amorim’s defensive options.
These returning players could provide greater balance and flexibility, offering Amorim the tools to implement his tactical ideas effectively.
5. Kieran McKenna’s Familiarity
Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKenna adds another layer of intrigue to the encounter. Once a key figure in Manchester United’s coaching setup, McKenna worked under Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, giving him an intimate understanding of many players in the current United squad.
After guiding Ipswich to their first Premier League win of the season against Tottenham last week, McKenna will be eager to outwit his former club. His familiarity with United’s players and tactics could pose a challenge for Amorim in his first test.
A New Era Begins
Amorim’s debut marks the start of a new chapter for Manchester United. While Ipswich may appear to be a straightforward opponent, the nuances of tactics, personnel decisions, and competing storylines ensure that this match is anything but ordinary. How Amorim navigates these early challenges will set the tone for his tenure at Old Trafford.
SOURCE: 90min.com
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