Man Utd Coach Amorim Stands Firm: System Evolution on His Terms

Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim insists his team's formation will evolve, but refuses to change it immediately due to pressure from owners and potential player backlash, as the club faces its worst Premier League start in 33 years.

By Chris Posiano

September 20, 2025 at 5:16 AM

8,954 views

Ruben Amorim Ready for System Evolution at Manchester United

MANCHESTER UNITED HEAD COACH RUBEN AMORIM has reiterated his commitment to the club's current tactical approach, defending his decision not to make immediate system-wide changes despite facing immense pressure following the club's disastrous start to the Premier League season. Amorim, who has overseen the worst win percentage for a United manager since the Second World War, stated his formation will evolve over time but ruled out drastic alterations in the near term.

Amorim addressed the intense scrutiny surrounding his selection of the 3-4-2-1 formation, even referencing the Pope as an external force that would not compel him to change his approach. "Not even the Pope can make me change it right now," Amorim asserted, adding, "I haven't even once thought about changing." He emphasized that the system's evolution is a process that requires careful planning and time, rather than an immediate overhaul.

The Portuguese coach acknowledged the concerning statistics – Manchester United currently boast the lowest average points tally for any ever-present Premier League side and sport the worst goal difference in the league – but maintained his philosophy. "This is my job, my responsibility, my life," he explained. "I will not change that [the system], but I will change it, there will be an evolution."

Amorim expressed concerns about how his squad might react to any significant changes, fearing it could alter team dynamics and player perceptions, especially given the immense pressure from co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe. "If I'm a player and I have a coach with a lot of pressure to change the system and I'm going to change in this moment, they will look at me in a different way," he reasoned. "When you think about the impact of any decision on the team, everything is important."

Ahead of Manchester United's crucial Premier League fixture against Chelsea, Amorim also touched upon the performance of key players like Bruno Fernandes. While acknowledging the midfielder's frustration, Amorim defended his positioning in the 3-4-2-1 system, stating, "I want Bruno to be more deep to have more possession to try and control more of the game." He believes the team's collective confidence, rather than individual brilliance, is lacking compared to rivals like Liverpool, who often snatch late victories.

Amorim also discussed Alejandro Garnacho's transfer to Chelsea, dismissing speculation about its impact on United, stating his sole focus remains on securing victories regardless of the opposition's squad composition.

Manchester United face Chelsea on Saturday, kick-off 5:30 PM.