Ex-England striker Michael Owen has weighed in on Ruben Amorim’s potential tactical setup at Manchester United, predicting a shift to the manager’s favored 3-4-3 formation.
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Owen speculates that Amorim, who officially joins United on November 11 after Erik ten Hag’s departure, will make notable adjustments.
Owen anticipates that defenders Matthijs de Ligt, Lisandro Martinez, and summer signing Leny Yoro will form a back-three, with Yoro adding depth and skill in central defense.
Owen suggested that Amorim might prefer Manuel Ugarte over United’s £70m midfielder Casemiro in midfield.
Owen believes Amorim’s past success with Ugarte at Sporting could tip the scales in Ugarte’s favor, with the young star having a deeper understanding of Amorim’s system.
Former Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey also endorsed this potential choice, noting Ugarte’s familiarity with Amorim’s high-intensity style.
Casemiro’s future under Amorim may be uncertain, as Owen anticipates a midfield that prioritizes Ugarte’s versatility and Amorim’s dynamic, pressing style.
In attack, Amorim could deploy Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford in dual No. 10 roles behind the central striker, a position that might suit Rashford’s inside play.
Owen noted that this setup would allow Rashford to utilize his vision and positioning, potentially offering him a “new lease of life” after recent struggles. Ramsey echoed this view, adding that Rashford could thrive in the advanced spaces Amorim’s system creates, helping him regain consistency and impact.
Amorim’s arrival marks a fresh start for United, but the timing poses challenges. Many players will be away on international duty, limiting Amorim’s opportunity to train with the full squad before his first game against Ipswich Town on November 24.
Owen acknowledged the difficulty of implementing the 3-4-3 so quickly, especially with United in need of an immediate turnaround, but he believes Amorim’s approach may be exactly what the club needs to rebuild momentum.
