Manchester United are in talks about appointing Ruben Amorim as their new manager following the dismissal of Erik ten Hag on Monday, but how could they line-up under the highly-rated Portuguese coach?
Amorim, 39, is one of the Europe's most sought-after young coaches following an impressive four-year spell at Sporting CP that has featured two Primeira Liga wins.
He arrived at the Estadio Jose Alvalade from Braga in March 2020 for a reported €10 million – the third-highest transfer fee for a manager in history. But he soon repaid that faith by winning Sporting's first league title in 19 years.
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Throughout his time with the Portuguese champions, Amorim has favoured a 3-4-3 formation with attacking wing-backs and a high defensive line. More often than not, his preference is to press aggressively – a style of play that suits the Premier League and, more importantly, Manchester United.
In recent windows United have brought in a number of players that suit his system, including former Sporting midfielder Manuel Ugarte; a player that recorded the second-best tackles-per-90 rate in Europe's top five leagues last season.
So how will they line-up if Amorim gets the job? Firstly, let's field two possible starting XI's of current players.
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As mentioned earlier the Portuguese coach has largely deployed a 3-4-3 formation with Sporting, using wing-backs and three centre-backs. A fully fit 'back five' could be a force to be reckoned with when Leny Yoro and Luke Shaw return to full fitness.
Manuel Ugarte established himself as one of the best defensive midfielders in Europe under Amorim before he left for Paris Saint-Germain in 2023, so he will likely feature heavily alongside Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo.
Amorim's emphasis on youth development is another huge positive. A front three of Garnacho, Rashford and Rasmus Hojlund has worked well previously but Amorim may have others ideas if United bring in Viktor Gyokeres, who has flourished under the 39-year-old at Sporting.
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In terms of potential additions in the transfer window, Sporting defender Goncalo Inacio has been linked with a move to Old Trafford. Back in June, A Bola claimed they were the ‘main interested party’ in his signature but they eventually decided to move for Leny Yoro.
As mentioned earlier, Viktor Gyokeres may be a top target if Amorim arrives. United have struggled in front of goal this season, scoring just eight in nine league games – and Gyokeres would certainly help improve that tally.
Finally, the Reds continue to be linked with a move for Alvaro Carreras; the full-back that continues to shine for Benfica following his summer departure from United, who inserted a reported £16 million buy-back clause into his contract.
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Here are two possible line-ups that include the above names.
Thoughts on Amorim? Is he the right man for Manchester United? Let us know in the comments.
Topics: Manchester United, Premier League, Sporting CP, Ruben Amorim
Jack Kenmare