Ruben Amorim’s arrival at Manchester United has ushered in a new era defined by tactical innovation, meticulous planning, and a fresh approach to player fitness.
The former Benfica midfielder, now tasked with steering one of the world’s most scrutinized football clubs through a grueling domestic and European schedule, is already making waves with his unconventional methods.
One of Amorim’s immediate challenges has been balancing intense match schedules with the physical conditioning of his squad. With twelve fixtures crammed into his first six weeks in charge, Amorim faces a delicate balancing act. “We have to use games,” he says, acknowledging the limited opportunities for traditional fitness drills. “The guys who are playing push more. We push the guys to the limit in games.”
Even for players returning from injury, such as Luke Shaw, Amorim focuses less on high-intensity fitness sessions and more on tactical preparation. Ahead of United’s crucial Premier League clash with Everton at Old Trafford, Amorim’s training sessions have been tailored to accommodate recovery without compromising tactical sharpness.
One of Amorim’s more intriguing methods is his use of walking football as a tactical tool. “Imagine being in an indoor stadium,” he explains. “Instead of video, we do it like walking—and jogging. If you cannot run, you can jog.” The goal is clear: keep players engaged, moving, and absorbing tactical instructions in a low-impact setting that aids recovery while reinforcing key concepts.
The coaching staff plays a pivotal role in Amorim’s approach. His assistant, Carlos Fernandes, works closely with the strikers, focusing on individual movements and situational tactics. “Everyone has a job in the staff,” Amorim emphasizes. “They are more important, maybe, than me!” This collaborative environment ensures every player receives personalized attention, whether they are jogging through a tactical walkthrough or preparing for a high-intensity match.
Advertisement
We’re on Social Media
Follow us on X
See more football highlights
Amorim’s disdain for long video sessions is another hallmark of his management style. Drawing from his own experiences as a player, he enforces a strict 12-minute limit on video analysis. “I was a football player,” he says with a laugh. “Videos more than 12 minutes? Forget it! Because of concentration. We show some video, but then we go on the pitch.”
Since taking the reins at Manchester United, Amorim has showcased his tactical flexibility. While he initially implemented a 3-4-2 system, he has been quick to adapt based on the strengths of his players. The recent Europa League match against Bodo highlighted this adaptability, with Noussair Mazraoui—a natural full-back—slotting into the center-half position alongside Luke Shaw due to an injury crisis.
“The structure is more fluid than you guys think,” Amorim explains. “Against Bodo, we finished without any center-backs. It was Mazraoui and Luke Shaw. I think it is more about the characteristics of the players and not the position of the players.” This philosophy underscores Amorim’s belief that modern football is less about rigid formations and more about exploiting the unique attributes of each player.
Wide roles are particularly crucial in Amorim’s system. His wing-backs are tasked with both stretching the field offensively and compacting it defensively. “What I want is a good one-on-one to open the field to play and close the field when we lose the ball,” he explains. This dual responsibility requires players with exceptional athleticism, tactical awareness, and versatility.
Mazraoui’s early performances have already impressed Amorim, demonstrating the Moroccan’s ability to adapt to different roles within the team. His stint at center-half against Bodo was a testament to the tactical fluidity Amorim demands from his squad. As United navigates a congested fixture list, this adaptability will be crucial in maintaining competitiveness across multiple competitions.
Amorim’s approach is not just about tactics and fitness; it’s about fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Every training session, every tactical tweak, and every interaction with his players is geared toward creating a cohesive, resilient unit capable of executing his vision on the pitch.
As Manchester United prepares for their next test against Everton, fans and pundits alike are watching closely. Will Amorim’s innovative methods and tactical acumen translate into consistent performances and results? Early signs suggest a manager unafraid to challenge conventions and rethink traditional approaches to training and match preparation.
In a league where marginal gains can make the difference between success and failure, Ruben Amorim’s emphasis on tactical flexibility, personalized coaching, and efficient use of time could be the key to unlocking Manchester United’s potential. His tenure is still in its infancy, but one thing is clear: Amorim’s Manchester United will be a team defined by adaptability, intensity, and a relentless pursuit of improvement.
The road ahead is challenging, but Amorim’s unique approach to managing one of football’s most demanding clubs could mark the beginning of a transformative era at Old Trafford.