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RUBEN AMORIM has solidified his reputation as the perfect leader for Manchester United following an impressive 4-0 win against Everton.
The Red Devils demonstrated their superiority over the Toffees at Old Trafford on Sunday.
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Joshua Zirkzee and Marcus Rashford both netted two goals in this thrilling match.
Additionally, talents like Amad Diallo and Kobbie Mainoo displayed outstanding performances.
United is preparing for a demanding away fixture against Arsenal, a significant challenge that will put Amorim’s leadership to the test.
Be sure to check out Dean Scoggins’ tactical breakdown in the latest episode of Tactics Exposed…
1. Joshua Zirkzee is enhancing Marcus Rashford’s game
In just three matches, we’ve witnessed a more dynamic Rashford. In the first game against Ipswich, he played as a striker.
This time, he took on one of the two inverted forward roles, displaying a striking ‘V’ formation.
Interestingly, Zirkzee was dropping deeper into the formation. Even as a forward, his average position was lower than that of the other attacking players, empowering Rashford to advance with confidence.
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While Zirkzee effectively connected plays, Bruno also occupied advanced spots before retracting later.
This tactical adjustment enabled both forwards to penetrate effectively, utilizing central attacks that pushed beyond the primary striker.
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Zirkzee’s position as a number nine has proven essential. While some classified it as a 3-4-2-1 formation, distinct adaptations allowed his deeper dropping to enable forwards to push forward.
Rashford’s movements behind the defense now reflect newfound confidence.
He later highlighted the significance of building connections—not only between himself and the manager but also among teammates.
Interactions between Garnacho and Hojlund, alongside Bruno or Mount connecting with Zirkzee and Rashford, have been observable, fostering unique pairings.
If Amorim’s strategy includes the center forward dropping deeper, expect to see Zirkzee and Rashford thriving together.
Should the goal be to stretch defenses, Hojlund may fill in as the number nine, executing threatening diagonal runs.
Early in Amorim’s management, we’ve already started to see these vital partnerships emerge.
2. Ruben Amorim’s adaptable tactics could be crucial against Arsenal
Amorim has employed 21 players throughout his initial three matches, compared to Erik ten Hag’s 24 across his full tenure.
While it might be ambitious to claim a victory against Arsenal so early in Amorim’s career, the team approaches the match with newfound confidence in both tactics and the manager’s vision.
Initially set up in a 3-4-3, players showcased their flexibility in shifting positions.
Kobbie Mainoo, unfortunately suspended for the next match, and Bruno Fernandes frequently exchanged positions, exhibiting trust as they both moved forward.
We also noted a fruitful alliance between Ugarte and Mainoo, which provided support as one advanced while the other held their ground, akin to Casemiro’s role.
Against Ipswich, the formation was distinctly 3-4-3, but it evolved into a versatile 4-4-2 against Everton.
This tactical flexibility is promising as United gears up to face a well-drilled Arsenal side accustomed to a 4-4-2 setup. Amorim’s tactics could match them in terms of player matchups.
The switch to a 4-4-2 came from Mazraoui’s talents as a right center-back, allowing him to naturally perform as a fullback.
Meanwhile, Dalot’s role as a left wing-back adds depth to the formation, enabling a dynamic transition between a back four and a back three—an intriguing tactical shift.
It’s thrilling to see how Amorim is guiding a group of players towards understanding diverse tactical roles.
3. Amad Diallo’s pressing strategy is key for success
Amad’s pressing was critical, applying pressure primarily on the right flank.
This defensive setup permitted the transition to a back four, enabling Amad to pursue the opposite left-back or winger without excessive concern for ball retention.
Mainoo was a crucial figure, acting as the driving force behind Amad’s press by positioning himself on the inside right, which allowed Amad to chase the ball effectively.
Amad’s assertive pressing bore fruit, facilitating rapid advancements into the box by Zirkzee, Rashford, and Bruno, all poised for his next play.
They were confident to move forward, relieved of the anxiety that Amad would pass instead of attacking, as Amorim had instilled the directive: always penetrate the box.
Both of Rashford’s goals exemplify this plan, with Amad assisting the second through a timely pass just outside the penalty area.
The first goal was a result of a well-executed cross from the flanks. The strategy emphasizes swift, direct plays over long-range through balls.
Consequently, in offensive positions, the forwards repeatedly surged into the box instead of waiting for passes.
4. Defenders must double up on Bukayo Saka
Our focus will be on Bukayo Saka along with Odegaard and Saka in Arsenal’s right channel.
Amorim displayed strategic foresight during the Everton game, preparing for Saka’s challenges.
He swiftly made adjustments due to Martinez’s suspension, substituting in Shaw. Dalot is likely to act as the left wing-back, or possibly Mazraoui, based on Amorim’s assessment. Shaw would operate as the left center-back.
This tactical formation smartly employs two left-backs to counter Bukayo Saka, highlighting the importance of balanced gameplay.
Amorim values complementary players across the pitch, pairing aggressive midfielders with skillful playmakers.
To successfully manage Saka, a strong plan is essential; neglecting this requirement could lead to repercussions, as demonstrated by West Ham’s experience.
5. Increased emphasis on set-piece tactics is yielding benefits
Among Arsenal’s tactical frameworks, using the front post player to infiltrate the ball area is vital. Manchester United must stay alert against this approach.
When Zirkzee is on the pitch, he should be positioned to defend that zone; if Hojlund plays, the same principle applies. It’s crucial to assign someone capable of resisting challenges.
Meanwhile, let’s reflect on United’s recent training sessions. For the first time, I observed them practicing corner routines before a match. It’s traditional for professionals to focus on dynamic player positioning and movement patterns during pre-match warm-ups.
However, against Everton, United was seen earnestly rehearsing corner strategies prior to the game, indicating a heightened level of focus on set-piece preparedness.
This attention to detail resulted in effective corner routines that paid dividends during the match: players formed a strategic block, distracting Everton’s defenders, allowing Rashford to score with a side-foot finish in a congested penalty area.
While there’s speculation about whether it was Rashford’s goal by intention, the execution of the set-play underscores a developed tactical awareness, with Mainoo skillfully denying Tarkowski from marking Rashford’s space properly.
Implementing a structured corner routine showed potential, but United must also refine their defensive tactics to contain Arsenal’s set-play threats.
