Which players have a future at Manchester United under Ruben Amorim?
Manchester United's disappointing domestic campaign has highlighted the need for a significant squad overhaul this summer. Sitting 14th in the Premier League, the team clearly doesn't match manager Ruben Amorim's tactical vision, though Europa League success could temporarily mask these deeper issues that the football odds have predicted beyond the next few Saturday match tips.
As the Portuguese manager plans for next season, the current squad will undergo substantial changes to better suit his preferred 3-4-3 system.
The next transfer window will reveal much about United's pulling power and financial capability as they attempt to rebuild a squad capable of implementing Amorim's vision.
However, attracting such talents will prove significantly more challenging without Champions League football. Players of the calibre of Matheus Cunha and Viktor Gyökeres from Sporting CP typically have multiple suitors offering Europe's premier competition, putting United at an immediate disadvantage in negotiations.
The club will need to balance retaining their best talent while shipping out those who don't fit Amorim's plans.
Despite the collective underperformance, several players of the current squad have shown they could be valuable pieces in Amorim's rebuild. Here's an assessment of which players might have a future at Old Trafford.
Alejandro Garnacho
Argentine winger Alejandro Garnacho has shown flashes of brilliance for the Red Devils this season, demonstrating his potential as an attacking threat when given space to run at defenders.
However, the Puskás Award winner still needs to define his best position within Amorim's system and significantly improve his end product. His decision-making in the final third remains inconsistent, and his defensive work rate will need to increase if he's to feature regularly next season.
With proper coaching and clearer tactical instructions, the 20-year-old could develop into a key player, but he'll need to show more consistency to secure his place in the starting lineup next season if more attackers arrive.
Bruno Fernandes
Despite United's struggles, their captain Bruno Fernandes remains the shining light of the last 18 months and the team's most influential player.
The attacking midfielder has often carried the side through difficult periods this season with his creativity, work rate, and leadership.
As a fellow Portuguese international, he likely understands Amorim's philosophy and could help implement it throughout the squad. Fernandes' ability to play multiple roles in midfield makes him adaptable to tactical changes, and his determination to win trophies aligns with the club's ambitions.
If United can lift the Europa League under his captaincy, it would provide crucial momentum heading into Amorim's first full season in charge.
Leny Yoro
Stepping into the shoes left by Raphael Varane was never going to be easy, but French defender Leny Yoro has shown promising signs in his limited appearances.
The young centre-back reads the game well and demonstrates composure in possession—two attributes essential for centre-backs in Amorim's three-man defensive system.
However, he still needs to work on his physicality to cope with the Premier League's demands and requires a consistent run of games to build partnerships with his defensive colleagues.
At his age, Yoro represents the type of long-term investment United should be making, with the potential to develop into a defensive cornerstone.
Amad Diallo
Perhaps the player who best fits Amorim's tactical approach, Ivorian attacker Amad Diallo's versatility makes him a valuable asset moving forward. His ability to operate as both a wing-back and anywhere across the front three provides tactical flexibility, while his pace and technical ability suit the counter-attacking elements of Amorim's style.
After stepping up with crucial goals during last season's FA Cup triumph, Diallo has demonstrated he can perform in high-pressure situations. His willingness to track back and contribute defensively further enhances his suitability for the wing-back role in a 3-4-3 formation, potentially making him a surprise key figure in next season's plans.
Published by Patrick Jane
30.04.2025