Ruben Amorim Drops Shocking Truth About Why He Won't Change His Tactics
Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim has revealed that external demands to alter his controversial 3-4-2-1 tactical setup prevented him from making changes for an extended period.
Amorim achieved considerable success in Portugal using this system, leading Sporting CP to Primeira Liga championships in 2020–21 and 2023–24—the club he departed continued this success by securing another title in 2024–25.
However, this represented a completely different approach for Manchester United and has presented challenges for the squad to adapt. Transfer activities since Amorim's appointment have focused on acquiring players better suited to this tactical framework, while Amad Diallo—who was sidelined under Erik ten Hag—has emerged as a key figure.
Numerous observers would identify the formation and reluctance to adapt for immediate practical benefits as primary factors behind United's poorest campaign in 51 years during 2024–25. Through strategic signings and a preseason to better implement core concepts, there has been notable progress in recent months. Nevertheless, it continues to be an ongoing development and Amorim has persistently faced criticism from supporters and media personalities regarding his tactical approach.
The 40-year-old was allegedly experimenting with alternative playing styles before the 4–4 stalemate with Bournemouth, which he acknowledged following the match—the Portuguese manager also showed bewilderment at how this information became public.
Amorim maintained his approach against the Cherries, and in the loss to Aston Villa six days afterward, but ultimately chose 4-2-3-1 when the Red Devils encountered and defeated Newcastle United on Boxing Day.
His rationale for making the change now, he states, is that doing so earlier would have conveyed the wrong impression to the squad and weakened his authority. United's absence of eight players due to injuries and Africa Cup of Nations duties is another consideration.
"When [media] discuss altering the system constantly, I cannot make changes because the players will perceive that I am adjusting due to [press pressure]. I believe that spells the end for the manager," Amorim stated at his recent press conference before a room of journalists.
"When we are performing effectively in our system, I think that is the right time to adjust, if it represents a better approach to secure the next victory. That is what we accomplished [against Newcastle]."
Amorim: Today Is a Different Moment
Amorim indicated that, with fundamental principles he desires now established, it becomes feasible to modify systems. He insists that making adjustments has nothing to do with any external pressure to do so.
Primarily, upon his arrival last season the objective was to "establish an identity" while fully aware that "perhaps I don't possess the players to perform effectively in that system."
Amorim clarified: "Today represents a different situation. We lack numerous players [so] we must adapt, but I already recognize that they comprehend why we are making changes. It is not due to pressure from [media] or the supporters.
"It is because now we grasp the style we want to implement and the fundamentals remain consistent. We can modify the system. I believe we will develop into a superior team because when all the players return, we will not consistently play with three center-backs.
"We will advance. That was something I was discussing."