Ruben Amorim addresses possible Manchester United tactical shift: "This is my responsibility"

Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim has responded to growing scrutiny over his tactical approach, making it clear that while change is inevitable, it will be on his terms and timeline. Despite a poor start to the season, the Portuguese manager remains steadfast in his philosophy, insisting that evolution in United’s system will come gradually, not under external pressure.

Ruben Amorim’s tactical stance under pressure

Amorim has deployed his preferred 3-4-2-1 formation in all 47 matches since taking charge at Old Trafford. However, results in the Premier League have been far from convincing, with just eight wins in 31 league games. The struggles have led to increasing calls for a tactical rethink, especially after United’s shock League Cup exit to fourth-tier Grimsby Town.

When asked if the club’s co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe had pushed for a change in formation, Ruben Amorim was unequivocal:

“No, no, no. No one, not even the Pope will change… This is my job. This is my responsibility. This is my life. So, I will not change that.”

While remaining firm, Amorim admitted that adjustments will come with time. “But I will change the system, there will be an evolution, but we need to make all the good steps… So, I hope to have the time to change! But it will change.”

United’s mixed performances and scoring woes

Despite poor results, Ruben Amorim highlighted that United’s performances have shown signs of progress. He noted that the team ranks second in the Premier League for expected goals, while also leading in total shots and attempts that struck the woodwork.

Yet the lack of end product remains glaring. United have scored just once from open play in their last six hours of league action. Aside from Bryan Mbeumo’s strike against Burnley, goals have only come via two own goals and a last-minute Bruno Fernandes penalty.

Amorim compared United’s current mentality to Liverpool’s winning edge. “I think it’s everything. It’s belief. It’s confidence. It’s aggression… with us, I feel the opposite. We are playing well, but something is going to go wrong in some moments.”

Future uncertainty amid Benfica rumors

Amid United’s rocky form, Amorim was briefly linked with a return to Lisbon as a candidate for Benfica’s managerial post. Reports in Portugal claimed presidential hopeful João Noronha Lopes wanted him back. However, Rui Costa instead appointed Jose Mourinho,Ruben Amorim’s mentor and a former United manager.

Amorim dismissed any speculation of talks with Benfica. “No guys, no contact. I’m Manchester United manager. Until something changes, and after that, for sure, if it’s next month, tomorrow, in ten years, I will rest because I deserve it.”

What’s next for Manchester United?

As United prepare for their crucial Premier League clash with Chelsea, Amorim remains determined to stay true to his philosophy while gradually evolving the system. The upcoming fixtures could prove decisive not only for United’s season but also for Amorim’s long-term future at Old Trafford.