The 1-1 draw against Ipswich Town at Portman Road not only marked the start of Ruben Amorim’s tenure but also signaled the beginning of a demanding fixture list set to test the squad’s depth and resilience.
With 11 matches scheduled before the year’s end, Amorim is keen to secure a victory in his first home game as Bodo/Glimt visits Old Trafford on Thursday.
Understanding the challenges of such a congested schedule, Amorim has stressed the importance of squad rotation to manage player workloads effectively.
In a press conference earlier this week, Amorim explained, “The players are already split in their training routines.
For example, if Bruno Fernandes plays this week, he won’t be able to train properly for the following two days. Recovery has to be gradual, starting with light jogging.”
He elaborated on the team’s approach, noting that while players who don’t participate in matches can train more rigorously, those in rotation need to balance recovery and readiness for upcoming fixtures.
This strategic approach reflects Amorim’s focus on maintaining flexibility and adaptability to go through the packed schedule successfully.
A positive development for Amorim is the gradual reduction in United’s injury list. At Ipswich, Luke Shaw, Tyrell Malacia, and Kobbie Mainoo were available for the bench, signaling increasing squad depth.
Additionally, Lisandro Martinez is expected to return, strengthening the defense in time for the Bodo/Glimt encounter. This is particularly timely, as the center-back position has been under significant strain.
However, the midfield remains a complex challenge for Amorim, even with Mainoo’s recent inclusion alongside key players like Christian Eriksen, Bruno Fernandes, Manuel Ugarte, Mason Mount, and Casemiro in the matchday squad.
Under former manager Erik ten Hag, United’s preferred 4-3-3 formation often left these six midfielders competing for limited spots.
The addition of Ugarte further intensified the competition, but injuries last season prevented Ten Hag from fully utilizing his options. This lack of depth was frequently cited as a factor behind the team’s inconsistent performances.
In recent matches, however, the cohesive efforts of Casemiro, Eriksen, Ugarte, Mainoo, Mount, and Fernandes have provided reassurance that Amorim can rotate his midfield effectively without sacrificing quality.
With ten games scheduled over the next 33 days, Amorim is likely to deploy a 3-4-3 system, where two central midfielders will operate in tandem, sparking fierce competition for starting roles.
Fans have speculated that Ugarte and Mainoo could emerge as the preferred partnership in this setup.
The wing-backs in the 3-4-3 formation will occupy the wide areas, while the two forwards flanking the striker are expected to play narrower roles.
This system suits the attacking inclinations of Fernandes and Mount, who are more effective in offensive positions compared to their midfield counterparts.
Amorim now has the luxury of a fully fit senior midfield contingent, a scenario that Ten Hag rarely experienced.
This depth not only provides competition but also places additional pressure on players to deliver standout performances.
As Amorim navigates this challenging period, he will hope to avoid injuries that could disrupt the squad’s rhythm during a crucial stretch of the season.
With such depth and versatility, United’s players have the opportunity to prove their mettle and thrive under Amorim’s leadership in the weeks ahead.
