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Man United’s Tactical Dilemma Deepens Under Amorim

Manchester United’s 3-0 defeat to Manchester City has triggered another wave of scrutiny on Ruben Amorim. Now in his second season at Old Trafford, the Portuguese coach finds his side languishing in 14th place with only four points from their opening four matches. For a club of United’s stature, this is an uncomfortable reality, and questions about his system and player roles have become unavoidable.

Former England international Danny Murphy has delivered one of the most thoughtful analyses of the derby. His comments shed light not only on United’s tactical framework but also on the recurring problem of personnel being misused.

Misfiring roles within Amorim’s structure

Murphy did not shy away from pointing out the confusion in United’s shape. “I’m not a big fan of the shape but I actually think it has improved. They look more compact and they’re not as easy to play through.” That observation highlights the paradox at the heart of Amorim’s project. Structurally, there has been progress, but execution has been undermined by individual deployment.

As Murphy put it, “The bigger issue has been the individuals he has playing in the wrong positions in that shape.” The case of Bruno Fernandes is the most striking. A player long regarded as one of Europe’s top number tens, he has been redeployed as an eight. Murphy explained, “Bruno Fernandes has been one of the best tens in Europe and he is now being asked to become an eight and identify danger, which he doesn’t do very well.”

The result is a midfielder caught between creativity and defensive duty, often undone by his instincts. “Bruno was ball watching [on the Foden goal]. He’s not lazy because he is back in position but he’s not used to spotting runs.” Murphy also recalled Fulham’s Emile Smith Rowe exploiting the same flaw, adding, “He had the same problems the other week when Emile Smith-Rowe ran off him at Fulham.”

System exposing weaknesses

United’s midfield is not the only concern. Manuel Ugarte, signed to bring energy and control, has been guilty of erratic positioning. Murphy pointed out, “Ugarte kept jumping out of position in midfield too, Shaw struggled at centre-back and Yoro struggled with the physicality of Haaland.”

These are not minor teething issues. When a system demands precise coordination, one misstep can unravel the collective. Murphy warned, “If Amorim wants to play that system can’t put round pegs in square holes.” He stressed the importance of tactical literacy among the players, adding, “You have to have players who understand the roles. The manager has to take some responsibility but in terms of just blaming the system, no.”

Searching for clarity and pragmatism

The comparison with Crystal Palace was particularly telling. Murphy concluded, “Crystal Palace play the same system better, but they’re a more pragmatic side than United.” Palace, often lauded for their organisation, adapt their play to the strengths and limitations of their squad. United, in contrast, appear locked into a model that demands qualities their players do not consistently possess.

Amorim’s philosophy is bold, and at Sporting it brought results. But the Premier League is unforgiving, and with United’s struggles already stretching into a second season, patience is wearing thin. Supporters crave identity, resilience and, most of all, results. If these do not materialise soon, the conversation may shift from tactical adjustments to something far more consequential for Amorim’s future.