Amorim Open to Tactical Shift as AFCON Absences Test United
Ruben Amorim has signalled a rare willingness to rethink his trusted 3-4-3 system as Manchester United prepare to cope with key absences caused by the Africa Cup of Nations.
The Portuguese coach, long associated with a back three that underpinned his success at Sporting CP, is facing a selection squeeze after Amad Diallo, Bryan Mbeumo and Noussair Mazraoui departed for AFCON duty, potentially ruling them out for up to a month.
United have already begun experimenting in training, testing alternative shapes after more than a year of tactical consistency under Amorim. The loss of wide attacking threats and defensive balance has forced a reassessment ahead of a demanding Premier League schedule.
The timing is significant. United host Aston Villa this weekend knowing they will also be without Casemiro, suspended after picking up his fifth yellow card in the dramatic 4-4 draw with Bournemouth. Suddenly, flexibility has become less of a preference and more of a necessity.
Amorim acknowledged the challenge when asked about the impact of AFCON, stressing that adaptability would be key on a week-by-week basis. He admitted the absence of Amad and Mbeumo in particular removes specific qualities that are not easily replaced, increasing the likelihood of a switch to a four-man defence.
The atmosphere around Old Trafford has reflected that uncertainty. With systems being tested and places up for grabs, the focus has shifted firmly to solutions rather than ideology. Amorim has made it clear that the immediate priority is results, starting with Villa.
One potential beneficiary is Kobbie Mainoo. With Casemiro sidelined, the 20-year-old midfielder is in line for his first Premier League start since May. His lack of minutes this season has been a talking point, amplified earlier in the week when his half-brother was seen wearing a Free Kobbie Mainoo T-shirt at Old Trafford.
Amorim was keen to shut down any distraction, insisting external noise would not influence his decisions. He pointed to his own experiences at Sporting, separating family opinions from professional judgment, and reiterated that selection would be based purely on performance.
The United head coach also framed Mainoo’s situation in historical context, reminding observers that even club icons like Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney spent time on the bench at a young age. Development, he argued, often comes through patience rather than instant prominence.
Whether through a reshaped midfield or a structural shift at the back, United are entering a period of adjustment. The coming weeks will test Amorim’s flexibility, but with crucial fixtures ahead, the focus remains firmly on finding the right balance to keep momentum alive while key players are away.