Ruben Amorim’s Tactical Acumen Shines Against Arsenal
Ruben Amorim, the 40-year-old Portuguese manager who took the reins at Manchester United in November, has faced numerous challenges during his tenure. However, the recent 1-1 draw against the title-chasing Arsenal at Old Trafford marked a significant improvement in the team’s performance. This match was a testament to Amorim’s tactical flexibility and his ability to adapt to the rigors of high-stakes Premier League fixtures. Manchester United were far from adventurous, opting to set up in a low-block formation that stifled Arsenal’s usual attacking prowess. Despite Arsenal’s dominance in possession, the Red Devils managed to prevent the Gunners from creating too many clear-cut chances, and even posed a threat on the counter-attack.
Bruno Fernandes’ Heroics and Arsenal’s Comeback
The highlight of the match came early when Bruno Fernandes, one of Manchester United’s most reliable players, scored a stunning free-kick to put the hosts ahead. This goal set the tone for an otherwise defensive display. Arsenal, known for their fluid attacking play under Mikel Arteta, continued to press forward, hoping to find the equalizer. Their efforts finally paid off with a brilliant strike from Declan Rice in the second half, which not only earned them a share of the spoils but also effectively ruled them out of the title race. Despite Arsenal’s extended periods of possession, Manchester United’s defensive solidity was a key factor in the game’s outcome. The Red Devils were particularly unlucky not to extend their lead, with David Raya making crucial saves to deny Noussair Mazraoui and Joshua Zirkzee.
Tactical Mastery and Player Adaptation
Amorim’s tactical approach was a deliberate and calculated move. He admitted after the game that while he doesn’t prefer to play a low-block style regularly, it was necessary to ensure the best possible outcome against Arsenal. Speaking to Sky Sports, he explained, "I think we did well. Of course, we don’t want to play like this [with a low block] defending so much and giving the ball to the opponent. But with all the games, all the problems, the characteristics of the players – Lindelof to let him not have a lot of metres to cover, Casemiro is comfortable in these types of games. I tried to adapt and imagine a game we could win." This strategy allowed his players to control the game and capitalize on the space behind Arsenal’s backline. Garnacho, in particular, had a standout performance, making the most of the few opportunities that presented themselves.
Comparisons to Jose Mourinho
Amorim’s willingness to adopt a defensive, low-block approach has drawn comparisons to former Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho, who is often referred to as the "Special One." Mourinho enjoyed considerable success with his defensive and counter-attacking tactics, leading Inter Milan and Porto to Champions League victories and guiding Chelsea to Premier League titles. At Manchester United, Mourinho’s tenure is remembered as one of the club’s most successful periods since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement. He won the Europa League and secured a second-place finish in the 2017/18 season, which he considered his greatest achievement at the club. Amorim, who has publicly acknowledged Mourinho as an idol, seems to be learning from the former manager’s tactical playbook, albeit with a more pragmatic approach.
Mikel Arteta’s Frustration
Arsenal’s manager, Mikel Arteta, was visibly frustrated by Manchester United’s defensive tactics, despite his own team’s dominance in possession and the number of chances they created in the first half. In his post-match interview with Sky Sports, Arteta lamented, "Very frustrating we haven’t won with the dominance and the chances we had in the first half. We gave the ball away out of nothing. Gave a foul away. We had them in the second half, you could feel they were really fatigued. It was the threat in the final 25 metres to make something happen. They didn’t want to play. You come here and you want to win the game. It is frustration." Arteta’s frustration was understandable, as his side’s inability to capitalize on their possession and opportunities ultimately cost them a crucial victory in their title pursuit.
Balancing Tactical Necessity with Fan Expectations
Amorim’s tactical choices, while effective, have not been without criticism. Roy Keane, a Manchester United legend and a known critic, has expressed concern that the team might get worse if it continues to rely heavily on defensive tactics. However, Amorim is well aware of the need to balance tactical necessity with fan expectations. He acknowledged, "When you coach Manchester United, you cannot play too much like that. You have to try to win the game. I know it is frustrating for the fans sometimes. We have to deal with that and sometimes do things that are not popular." The pressure to succeed at a club with such a storied history and high expectations is immense, and Amorim’s approach reflects a realistic strategy to secure results in the short term while working towards a more balanced and attractive playing style in the future.
