Ruben Amorim’s arrival as Manchester United’s new manager has sparked both optimism and speculation over how the squad will adapt to his high-energy philosophy.
The former Sporting Lisbon boss took charge on November 11 and debuted with a 1-1 draw against Ipswich Town in the Premier League.
Following his first match, Amorim acknowledged that implementing his tactical approach would take time, predicting “a long period of suffering” before his ideas fully take hold at Old Trafford.
While some players may thrive under Amorim, others might find themselves sidelined, according to pundit and former Republic of Ireland defender Mark Lawrenson.
Lawrenson has identified Brazilian midfielder Casemiro as a potential casualty of Amorim’s high-pressing system. Speaking to Paddy Power, the ex-Match of the Day analyst suggested that Casemiro, despite his pedigree, may struggle to adapt to Amorim’s demanding style of play.
“He obviously wants to press, but that won’t come straight away because the players aren’t used to it,” said Lawrenson. “You’d look at Casemiro and think that pressing and getting up the field quickly isn’t his ideal way of playing.
“He has played better of late, but with a new manager, he might find himself dropped because he doesn’t have the legs.”
Casemiro started against Ipswich but was substituted just before the hour mark for Manuel Ugarte, a midfielder Amorim worked closely with at Sporting Lisbon.
While Lawrenson expressed doubts over Casemiro, he suggested that Amorim’s arrival could breathe new life into Harry Maguire’s Manchester United career. The England defender has endured a challenging time at Old Trafford but may benefit from Amorim’s tactical reshuffle.
“If Harry Maguire knocked on Ruben Amorim’s door, he’d give him a chance,” Lawrenson stated. “If Maguire plays as the middle of a back three, he’ll be comfortable. Amorim might think he can pair Maguire with two quicker players on either side and see how it goes.”
Amorim has little time to settle into his role, with Manchester United set to face Bodø/Glimt in the Europa League on Thursday before resuming Premier League duties against Everton at the weekend.
As Amorim looks to rebuild confidence at Old Trafford, the coming weeks will reveal which players can rise to the challenge of his philosophy—and who may fall out of favor.
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