Philosophy unshaken: Ruben Amorim refuses to alter tactics after Manchester Derby loss
Manchester United fell 3-0 to Manchester City as Ruben Amorim insists he won't change his 3-4-3 philosophy despite mounting criticism.
New Delhi: Manchester United's rocky start to the Premier League season continued with a 3-0 defeat against Manchester City, leaving fans frustrated and questioning both the team tactics and selection. With just four points from four games, this is United's worst opening to a league campaign since 1992-93, a season that ultimately ended with Sir Alex Ferguson's side winning the title.
However, head coach Ruben Amorim remains steadfast in his approach. Despite mounting criticism over his controversial 3-4-3 system, he insists he will not alter his methods. "When I want to change my philosophy, I will change. If not, you have to change the man,” Amorim said, making it clear that any adjustment would be on him, not the system.
The defeat at the Etihad exposed some of United's long-standing weaknesses. The midfield frequently found itself isolated, leaving the defence vulnerable. Phil Foden's opener was a classic example as Jeremy Doku drifted past Bruno Fernandes and a static before setting up a headed finish.
Amorim's system has left players like Bruno Fernandes operating in unfamiliar roles, something that does not work for him. Yet, Amorim’s commitment to his philosophy remains unwavering, regardless of the outcome.
Even with the new striker, Benjamin Sesko, who was making his Premier League debut, United struggled to create clear-cut opportunities. Sesko's limited involvement and a mishandled chance underlined the challenge of adapting to the 3-4-3 setup. "I’m going to hold back on giving him a hard time,” said former striker Dion Dublin, acknowledging the learning curve for the Slovenian forward.
Meanwhile, United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and fans alike were left to ponder the tactical approach as the Portuguese manager shrugged off criticism and emphasised that results, not opinions, dictate narratives. "We are doing better but the results don’t show that,” he admitted, highlighting the disconnect between performance and outcomes.
What next?
The start of the season for the Red Devils has not been that bad as they should have beaten Arsenal, they beat Burnley and had ample chances against Fulham in the first half. But they seemed helpless against City and could have conceded more goals in the second half.
One thing is clear that Amorim won't change his style of play and create a lot of problems for himself as he is picking the wrong players in the wrong position.
If United continues down this path without adapting player roles to the 3-4-3 formation, fans can expect more of the same struggles. For now, Amorim has drawn a line with his statement that the philosophy stays, the man adapts or else.