Under Rúben Amorim’s potential 3-4-3 formation for Manchester United, Yoro and Anthony are expected to start, while Kobbie Mainoo is set to be loaned out. Additionally, the club is preparing to bring in three promising talents on loan during the January transfer window.
This tactical approach brought him significant success during his time at Sporting CP, making it a likely choice as he seeks to implement his style at Old Trafford.
As Amorim prepares for his first game in charge, set to take place against Ipswich Town, speculation is mounting over his potential plans for key players, particularly Marcus Rashford. Reports suggest that the manager is considering deploying Rashford as the central striker, or No. 9, in the revamped system.
This decision may be influenced by the recent form of United’s other attacking options. Both Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee have struggled to find their rhythm this season, making Rashford, who has already scored four goals in the current campaign, an attractive option for the central role. His goal tally surpasses that of both Højlund and Zirkzee, which might be why Amorim views him as better suited to lead the line.
If Rashford does take on the No. 9 role in the 3-4-3 setup, it could open opportunities for other attacking players. Alejandro Garnacho or Amad Diallo might occupy one of the wing-forward positions, complementing Bruno Fernandes in the attacking trio.
In midfield, Amorim is likely to rely on Manuel Ugarte, one of his trusted players from his time at Sporting CP, to anchor the deeper midfield role alongside promising youngster Kobbie Mainoo. On the flanks, the wing-back roles are expected to be filled by the in-form Noussair Mazraoui on the right and either Luke Shaw or Diogo Dalot on the left.
If these plans come to fruition, Manchester United’s starting XI with Rashford leading the attack could look like this: André Onana in goal, a back three of Benjamin Šeško Yoro, Matthijs de Ligt, and Lisandro Martínez, wing-backs Mazraoui and Shaw/Dalot, a central midfield pairing of Ugarte and Mainoo, and a front three featuring Fernandes, Garnacho/Amad, and Rashford.
Rúben Amorim’s tactical approach at Manchester United is generating significant anticipation, particularly his likely implementation of the 3-4-3 system, which brought him success at Sporting CP. With the upcoming match against Ipswich Town, key decisions about player deployment are taking shape.
### Marcus Rashford as the No. 9
Amorim’s consideration of Marcus Rashford as the central striker is logical, given Rashford’s goal-scoring form this season. His four goals exceed the combined contributions of Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee, who have struggled to find consistency. Deploying Rashford centrally could maximize his pace, movement, and finishing ability while adding fluidity to United’s attack.
### Supporting Cast in Attack
In the 3-4-3 setup, Rashford could be flanked by dynamic wingers like Alejandro Garnacho or Amad Diallo, offering pace and creativity. Bruno Fernandes, operating in a more advanced role, would have the freedom to orchestrate attacks and exploit spaces in the opposition’s defensive line.
### Solid Midfield Backbone
Amorim’s trust in Manuel Ugarte to anchor the midfield alongside Kobbie Mainoo reflects his emphasis on a balance of experience and youth. Ugarte’s tenacity and ball-winning skills complement Mainoo’s composure and progressive passing, ensuring a strong presence in the middle.
### Flexible Wing-Backs
Wing-back roles are critical in a 3-4-3, and Noussair Mazraoui’s form makes him a natural fit on the right. On the left, Luke Shaw’s ability to contribute both defensively and offensively makes him a preferred choice, though Diogo Dalot’s versatility could also see him feature.
### Defensive Trio
The back three of Benjamin Šeško Yoro, Matthijs de Ligt, and Lisandro Martínez offers a mix of physicality, technical ability, and positional awareness. Their coordination will be vital in maintaining defensive solidity and initiating build-up play from the back.
### Predicted Starting XI
Here’s how the team might line up under Amorim against Ipswich Town:
– **Goalkeeper**: André Onana
– **Defenders**: Benjamin Šeško Yoro, Matthijs de Ligt, Lisandro Martínez
– **Wing-Backs**: Noussair Mazraoui (R), Luke Shaw/Diogo Dalot (L)
– **Midfielders**: Manuel Ugarte, Kobbie Mainoo
– **Attackers**: Bruno Fernandes, Alejandro Garnacho/Amad Diallo, Marcus Rashford
This lineup highlights Amorim’s focus on a balanced, high-energy system capable of both solid defending and dynamic attacking transitions. Rashford’s role as the focal point of the attack could be a game-changer, particularly if he maintains his scoring touch.