Why Amorim's system isn't working - tactical analysis

Ruben Amorim's Manchester United: A Tactical Puzzle Unraveling

The Old Trafford faithful have witnessed a stark departure from the expected. Manchester United, under the tutelage of Ruben Amorim, finds itself adrift in a sea of tactical uncertainty, struggling to replicate the fluid, high-octane football that defined his tenure at Sporting CP. While the initial excitement surrounding the appointment of a manager lauded for his innovative approaches was palpable, the reality on the pitch has, for many, been a source of growing frustration. So, what exactly is going wrong with Amorim's system at Manchester United?

The Foundation of Sporting Success: What Was Amorim's Blueprint?

To understand why Manchester United's current tactical setup is faltering, it's crucial to revisit the core principles that made Ruben Amorim a sought-after commodity. At Sporting, Amorim instilled a system built on aggressive pressing, rapid transitions, and a flexible attacking structure. His teams were renowned for their intensity, often overwhelming opponents with a coordinated defensive press that suffocated build-up play. This wasn't just aimless harrying; it was a calculated, intelligent press designed to force errors and create turnovers in dangerous areas.

Key to this success was Sporting's midfield dynamism. Amorim often employed a midfield trio that possessed a blend of defensive solidity, ball-carrying ability, and creative spark. Players like João Palhinha, when he was at Sporting, provided a formidable defensive screen, allowing others to push higher and engage in the press. The attacking output was equally impressive, with wingers and forwards interchanging positions, creating unpredictability and stretching opposition defenses. The BBC Sport article highlights this, noting Amorim's knack for "optimising individual talents within a collective framework." This framework, however, seems to be the very element that is proving elusive at Manchester United.

Manchester United Under Amorim: A Mismatch of Styles?

The starkest observation from Manchester United's performances under Amorim is the apparent disconnect between his preferred tactical approach and the players at his disposal, or perhaps, how those players are being utilized. The high-energy, relentless pressing that characterized Sporting's success demands a certain level of physical commitment and tactical discipline from every player on the pitch. While Manchester United possesses talented individuals, the collective execution of Amorim's pressing schemes has been inconsistent, at best.

One of the primary issues appears to be the lack of cohesive pressing. Instead of a unified unit closing down the opposition, Manchester United's press often resembles a series of individual efforts, leaving gaps and passing lanes exploited. This can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the personnel might not be perfectly suited to Amorim's demanding system. Does every player possess the same engine and tactical understanding to execute such a high-risk, high-reward pressing strategy consistently? It's a valid question that many fans are asking.

Secondly, the transition from defense to attack, a hallmark of Amorim's Sporting, has also been problematic. While Sporting was adept at winning the ball back and launching swift counter-attacks, Manchester United has struggled to do the same. Passes are often wayward, decision-making in transition is questionable, and the speed and incisiveness that defined Sporting's counter-attacks are largely absent. The BBC article implicitly touches on this by discussing the need for "quick transitions and intelligent movement."

The Midfield Conundrum: Where's the Control?

Perhaps the most significant tactical failing lies in Manchester United's midfield. Amorim's systems at Sporting relied heavily on a dominant midfield that could control possession, break up play, and initiate attacks. At Manchester United, however, the midfield often appears disjointed and lacking in authority. The ability to retain possession under pressure, a fundamental requirement for any team looking to control games, has been a recurring problem.

When teams are able to bypass Manchester United's midfield press, they often find space to operate and build attacks with relative ease. The defensive structure behind the midfield also seems to be affected, leading to more individual defensive errors and a general sense of vulnerability. The midfield's inability to consistently win the ball back, or to effectively recycle possession when it is won, leaves the defense exposed and the attack starved of service. This lack of midfield control is a gaping hole in Amorim's tactical blueprint at the club.

Attacking Inefficiency: Creativity or Chaos?

While Manchester United possesses a wealth of attacking talent, their offensive output under Amorim has been a mixed bag. The fluidity and interchange of positions that characterized Sporting's attack seem to have been lost in translation. Instead, there have been instances of disjointed attacking play, with players looking unsure of their roles and movements.

The pressing from the front, intended to create turnovers and initiate attacks, hasn't consistently yielded the desired results. While individual moments of brilliance can break down defenses, a sustainable tactical system requires more than just flashes of individual skill. The BBC article subtly points to the need for "predictable patterns of play" to complement the unpredictability of individual brilliance. At Manchester United, the predictability seems to be in the lack of cohesive attacking patterns.

Furthermore, the reliance on wide areas, while present, hasn't always translated into consistent end product. Crosses are often inaccurate, and the movement in the box to capitalize on these deliveries hasn't always been sharp. This isn't to say the players lack quality, but rather that the tactical structure isn't effectively unlocking their full attacking potential. Is it a case of the players not fully grasping the nuances of Amorim's attacking philosophy, or is the philosophy itself not a perfect fit for the current squad?

The Psychological Hurdle: Confidence and Belief

Beyond the purely tactical, it's impossible to ignore the psychological aspect. A team struggling for consistent results often sees its confidence erode. The relentless pressure of managing a club like Manchester United, coupled with a system that isn't immediately bearing fruit, can create a difficult environment. Players may begin to doubt their ability to execute the system, leading to hesitancy and a further breakdown in tactical discipline.

Amorim's reputation is built on his ability to inspire and motivate. However, if the team isn't performing, that motivation can wane. The players need to believe in the system, understand its objectives, and execute it with conviction. Without that underlying belief, even the most sophisticated tactical plan is destined to fail. The BBC article hints at this by discussing the importance of "buy-in from the players."

Looking Ahead: Can Amorim's System Find its Feet?

The question on every Manchester United fan's lips is whether Ruben Amorim can turn the tide. His track record at Sporting suggests he possesses the tactical acumen and leadership qualities to succeed. However, the transition to a different league, with different players and different expectations, is a significant challenge.

For Amorim's system to truly work at Manchester United, several key areas need to be addressed. Firstly, the pressing needs to become more coordinated and effective. This requires intensive training and a clear understanding from every player about their role in the press. Secondly, the midfield needs to exert greater control, both defensively and offensively. Improving possession retention and the ability to transition effectively will be crucial.

Finally, the attacking patterns need to become more fluid and predictable, allowing the talented forwards to express themselves within a structured framework. It's a monumental task, and the clock is ticking. Whether Amorim can adapt his winning formula to the unique pressures and personnel of Manchester United remains to be seen, but the current tactical picture offers little reassurance to those hoping for a swift return to glory.