Man Utd news: The top five things on Ruben Amorim’s to-do list at Old Trafford

With Ruben Amorim set to take his first game in charge on November 24 away at Ipswich, there will be many strategies he will be keen to implement.

The 39-year-old Portuguese coach arrived in Manchester this week, raring to go with his new squad after the international break comes to an end.

Here, Sports News Blitz’s George Russell takes a look at the most pressing things in his in-tray at his Old Trafford office.

Get Marcus Rashford's mojo back

In the 2022/23 season, Rashford netted a personal record-breaking season of 30 goals, announcing himself as one of the players of the campaign.

Last season was an absolute disaster for the No.10, however, with issues on and off the pitch.

This season has been an improvement on the last, but Rashford is still looking to shine like the player we all know he can be.

Upon arriving at Carrington this week, Amorim will be keeping a close eye on the England forward as he will undoubtedly be a player the coach will want to use.

That being said, the United of Amorim will be drastically different and this could mean Rashford’s familiar left-wing role is no longer suitable for him.

So where does this leave Rashford in a formation that doesn't fit his profile?

According to a report done by ‘GiveMeSport’, Amorim will offer Rashford a chance to impress him up front.

READ MORE: Man Utd analysis: Three players United should sign to thrive under Ruben Amorim

Fortifying a backline

With 82 goals conceded in all competitions during the 2023/24 season - their poorest defensive showing since 1970/71, Manchester United's defensive deficiencies have been made clear.

With just five goals given up in 11 Primeira Liga games this season and seven clean sheets, Amorim showed at Sporting CP that he could strike a balance between attacking flair and defensive discipline.

He will be looking to stabilise United’s backline with a three-at-the-back formation.

Amorim’s most likely back three would be a combination of Mathijs de Ligt, Lisandro Martinez and Leny Yoro.

This back three has all the traits you need in a Premier League backline such as strength, pace and footballing IQ.

Getting the fans back behind the club

At the end of Erik ten Hag’s reign, United fans felt that the club was going in a downward spiral and were visibly frustrated and upset with the players and the coaching staff.

Amorim will be looking to get the fans back on board and make Old Trafford a fortress again for visiting away teams.

In a recent interview Amorim said: “I am really excited. I am where I’m supposed to be. That’s the feeling.”

He also had a message to the United supporters which was “we will be ready”.

When Amorim took over at Sporting CP in 2020, the club was in disarray, but his charismatic leadership and clear communication helped to unify fans and players.

Although the atmosphere at Old Trafford isn’t as toxic, a decade without a Premier League title has led to growing frustration.

Amorim’s ability to connect with both fans and players will be vital in reviving enthusiasm and optimism at the club.

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Cementing the club back where they belong

Last season, United had their second worst ever Premier League points tally and finished the season in eighth place on 60 points

United currently sit in 13th place in the Premier League following a disappointing start to the 2024/25 season that led to Ten Hag’s departure.

With the team just four points off third place, Amorim has a genuine opportunity to turn things around and potentially secure a top-four finish - which all United fans are dreaming of.

Old Trafford’s intimidating reputation has faded, with United suffering nine home defeats in the 2023/24 season,their highest tally since the 1973/74 campaign.

Amorim’s home record at Sporting CP was just three home defeats across all competitions over the past two years.

Re-establishing Old Trafford as a formidable venue will be crucial if Amorim is to achieve success in Manchester.

Aims and objectives

Amorim’s main job for this season is to bring back the club’s identity.

A main criticism of Ten Hag’s United side was the lack of tactical identity, with fans and sometimes players looking for answers into why there was such a lack of tactics.

Ex United player Gary Neville said: “The absence of a clear identity or style has been a real mystery for the past two and a half seasons.”

Amorim, however, will bring a distinct, recognisable tactical philosophy to Old Trafford, renowned for his aggressive, possession-based pressing style.

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