The three biggest winners and losers in the Man Utd squad if Ruben Amorim is appointed manager

Ruben Amorim’s potential arrival at Manchester United is sparking curiosity about which players could thrive under his high-pressing, aggressive 3-4-3 system. His preferred style, emphasizing a high defensive line and wing-backs, may benefit several current players, while others could see increased competition for spots.

1. Leny Yoro: The £52 million summer signing from Lille may gain prominence due to his pace and ability to recover defensively, which suits Amorim’s high-line setup. Yoro could join Lisandro Martinez and Matthijs de Ligt in a solid back three.

2. Manuel Ugarte: As one of Europe’s top defensive midfielders, Ugarte’s understanding of the 3-4-3 formation, honed under Amorim, makes him an ideal fit. With his impressive tackling record, he would add defensive stability, likely pairing with a box-to-box midfielder like Kobbie Mainoo in the central roles.

3. Bruno Fernandes: Positioned behind the striker, Fernandes could serve as a creative outlet in half-spaces, rather than a deeper midfield role. This forward position might maximize his playmaking abilities, which could be vital for sparking United’s attack.

4. Alejandro Garnacho and Amad Diallo: Amorim’s system favors a pacey, dribbling winger, making Garnacho and Diallo prime candidates. Their speed and technical skills align with Amorim’s wide, attacking tactics, possibly giving them an edge over other wingers.

5. Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee: Both could play as target men, a role Viktor Gyokeres has excelled in at Sporting under Amorim. While Zirkzee is still adjusting to United, both he and Hojlund may benefit from this direct, central-forward approach.

Challenges for Other Players:

– Antony: With Amorim’s reliance on wing-backs rather than traditional wingers, Antony might face challenges in securing a starting spot, though he could adapt to a left wing-back role if needed.

– Marcus Rashford: Rashford’s role may be uncertain, as Amorim’s system requires consistent dribbling and crossing abilities, areas where Garnacho and Amad have shown promise.

The likely addition of Amorim could see United undergo a tactical evolution, potentially benefiting those who align with his high-energy, structured 3-4-3 style, while increasing competition for others to prove their adaptability and form.
Ruben Amorim’s potential arrival could indeed spark intriguing tactical shifts for Manchester United. His high-pressing, structured 3-4-3 setup offers distinct advantages and new challenges for many players, likely leading to both adaptations and competition within the squad.

**1. Leny Yoro:** As a new signing, Yoro’s pace and defensive acumen make him well-suited for the back three, crucial in Amorim’s high-line defense. Partnering with Lisandro Martinez and Matthijs de Ligt, Yoro’s recovery speed could be vital against counter-attacks, while his composure on the ball aligns with the system’s emphasis on building from the back.

**2. Manuel Ugarte:** With prior experience in Amorim’s 3-4-3 formation, Ugarte would be a natural fit in United’s midfield. His tackling strength and positional discipline would provide a defensive anchor, especially useful with a high defensive line. Paired with a dynamic box-to-box player like Kobbie Mainoo, Ugarte could offer balance, allowing United’s more attack-minded players to focus on advancing the play.

**3. Bruno Fernandes:** Moving Bruno into a more advanced role behind the striker could unleash his creativity and vision in the final third. Operating in the half-spaces would maximize his playmaking, as he could capitalize on quick, high-intensity attacking moves that are a hallmark of Amorim’s strategy, potentially increasing his goal contributions.

**4. Alejandro Garnacho and Amad Diallo:** Garnacho and Amad’s dribbling ability and acceleration down the wings would be key in Amorim’s wide, aggressive style. Their direct approach could benefit from Amorim’s emphasis on wing-backs, and they may see opportunities to thrive as dynamic outlets capable of stretching defenses and creating space for central attackers.

**5. Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee:** Amorim’s preference for a target man up front suits both Hojlund and Zirkzee, who could emulate Viktor Gyokeres’ role at Sporting. As physical forwards, they have the potential to occupy defenders, hold up play, and bring others into attack, giving United a direct focal point. Zirkzee, though newer to the squad, may need time to adapt but would benefit from Amorim’s straightforward style.

### **Challenges for Other Players**

– **Antony:** Traditional wingers may have limited roles in Amorim’s system, as wing-backs are prioritized. While Antony could adapt to a wing-back role, this would require him to refine his defensive game. Otherwise, he may see competition for starting positions in attack, where Garnacho and Amad could be favored for their directness.

– **Marcus Rashford:** Rashford’s skillset could require adjustment to Amorim’s demands for dribbling and crossing, areas where Garnacho and Amad excel. Rashford may need to demonstrate versatility, possibly taking on a more central role or developing as a left wing-back.

### **Outlook**

Overall, Amorim’s arrival would likely bring a tactical overhaul, benefiting players who align naturally with his high-energy, structured style. Those less suited may either face increased competition or be challenged to adapt. This transition could create a highly competitive environment within the squad, spurring players to enhance their tactical flexibility and form.