Ruben Amorim has admitted that he’s still learning about his Manchester United players after four months in the job and another position change could be on the cards.
Manchester United appointed Ruben Amorim in November and he has had a difficult time at Old Trafford so far this season.
While it is clear that the Reds need to make signings to improve the squad at his disposal, Amorim has also been figuring out the best way to use his current players.
In recent weeks, the Portuguese boss has changed the roles of several players, such as Casemiro, Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo.
“He has showed me so many things on the right, maybe better than on the left,” explained Amorim after moving Garnacho to the opposite wing recently. “I’m still learning about the team.”
This is something that we will likely continue seeing as the 40-year-old gets to know his squad even better in the coming months ahead of the new season.
Dalot has been important for Amorim at United
One player who has been very important for Amorim so far is Diogo Dalot. The defender has started 26 of the 28 games his fellow countryman has taken charge of so far.
More importantly, the 26-year-old has played 90 minutes in all but one of the Premier League games Amorim has been in charge for. He was suspended for the clash against Newcastle – the only match he has missed so far.
However, despite Dalot’s importance to the team, it is clear that he does not suit the role of a wingback in Amorim’s system and it has instead been suggested that the player could move into the back three.
Noussair Mazraoui has been used as a wide centre-back and he looks much more comfortable in that position than when operating as a wingback. Dalot could also make that adjustment.
Dalot’s ex-coach tips defender for United position change
The player’s former Porto B coach, Antonio Folha, has explained that Dalot previously excelled in a back three in that team, with his “intelligence and physicality” being key to standing out in that role.
Folha suggests that Dalot fits the profile of player Amorim wants “perfectly” and believes that he will be a key player going forward in the “flexible system” the United boss uses.
“Diogo adapted well to playing as a centre back in a back three,” Folha said, as per the Manchester Evening News. “His intelligence on the field allowed him to interpret the game effectively and make adjustments depending on the situation.
“In this formation, his versatility and physicality helped him fulfill the role, ensuring solid defensive contributions while still being able to support offensive transitions when necessary.”
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“Amorim values players with strong mentalities, intelligence, and versatility,” Folha added. “Diogo fits this profile perfectly. His ability to play in various roles, both defensively and offensively, will make him a valuable asset in Amorim’s flexible system.”
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