‘Sometimes you need to adapt’: Why Amorim finally changed Man Utd formation
“Sometimes you have to make adjustments, and at that moment, there was no specific tactic,” stated Ruben Amorim following Manchester United’s 1-0 victory over Newcastle. He was reflecting on his decision to employ a back six toward the game’s conclusion. His makeshift squad was clinging to the lead, with Patrick Dorgu and Diogo Dalot positioned in front of the full-backs in a six-man setup. The fact that Amorim had even considered a back four was noteworthy and showcased the tactical evolution of his side.
Once, he would not have entertained such a notion, but now he feels somewhat emboldened, able to adapt from a place of relative advantage, having propelled United to fifth in the table—with the potential for an even higher finish before a challenging 2025 unfolds.
Image: Man Utd are currently in fifth place in the Premier League
The increasing faith in his strategy stems not only from results but also from team unity, and this is just as significant a takeaway from the match as the tactical shift. Amorim conceded that, in its own way, this win was among the most gratifying given that context. “I believe it’s essential for us to understand that we can secure victories even when not playing at our best, that we can win through spirit and team cohesion.” He emphasized his young team’s dedication to defending each cross and putting their bodies on the line.
“We endured a lot,” he remarked. “We were merely trying to survive.” Though he was referring to the final moments against Newcastle, it might encapsulate his tenure at the club thus far. Nevertheless, they prevailed. Perhaps Amorim will navigate through all these challenges too.
What delayed Amorim’s decision?
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Roy Keane and Jamie Carragher share insights on Manchester United’s 1-0 victory against Newcastle United.
Sky Sports’ Zinny Boswell:
Amorim ultimately modified his formation, and his back four achieved a clean sheet for the first time in nearly three months. Many will be questioning what led to this change—justifiably so—after a year of unwaveringly adhering to a single formation. He created a surprise with a significant impact by having his players warm up in a back three. It was indeed shocking when United took their positions at kick-off. This marked the first occasion Amorim had begun with a back four.
Amorim elaborated on his reasoning in the post-match discussion with Sky Sports: “I believed that this was the sole way to generate more threat, to create more chances by employing a back four with numerous players in central positions.” But it raises the question: why now? This can’t have been the first match of its kind.
The alteration becomes even more intriguing when you consider Amorim’s remarks about Dorgu, the scorer against Newcastle, and how he thrived while playing as a winger rather than a wing-back. “You position him in a role that is further forward, the duties are not the same, and he enjoys greater freedom to lose the ball. I think this helped Patrick perform better.”
Amorim’s assessment is indisputable. This was likely Dorgu’s finest display in a United jersey. However, this acknowledgment by the head coach brings us back to the previous question.
Image: Patrick Dorgu celebrates giving Man Utd the lead against Newcastle
These are observations that many observers have been making since Amorim assumed control over a year ago. What could have transpired had he heeded suggestions sooner? It certainly makes one ponder. Dorgu’s progress will raise inquiries regarding how other, potentially superior players might have excelled in a different formation. Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo come to mind for that right-wing position. It indeed appears to suit Amad better than the wing-back role.
However, perhaps their return from AFCON will signal an end to this experimentation. Clear communication regarding the duration of this change has been lacking. After so much time defending his strategy, it’s uncertain what Amorim envisions for the long term. It might feel almost absurd, yet entirely necessary, should he reverse his stance now and move on from a dedicated three-at-the-back approach.
Surely, the lesson for Amorim must be that his earlier strategy of adhering strictly to one formation, regardless of player capabilities or game circumstances, was a mistake not to be repeated.
Signs of real improvement are emerging, thanks to Amorim’s adaptability. This is the method he should maintain.
Keane: Man Utd must progress after ‘ugly’ win.
Sky Sports’ Roy Keane: “We witnessed a significant win for Man Utd. To emerge victorious in an unappealing game, particularly from a defensive standpoint, while achieving that clean sheet is commendable.”
“There must be pride in your defense. An unattractive win, yes, but a vital one.”
The goal was brilliant, a standout moment. However, to make advances, it must revolve around being defensively robust. It serves as a springboard for momentum amongst the younger players, but something deeper must be found.”
“Grabbing results is key. In the teams I played for, we didn’t necessarily play well every week, but we persevered. They need to build on this now.”
Carra: The change in shape feels justified.
Sky Sports’ Jamie Carragher after United’s first-half performance: “The alteration in shape seems appropriate for Man Utd. In recent weeks, we’ve observed a shift. Tonight, both with and without possession, it functions as a back and midfield four. The unusual aspect is that it’s compelled Newcastle into a back five! They have been quite solid.”
Published: 2025-12-27 00:00:00
source: www.skysports.com
