Ruben Amorim has revealed the biggest change from Manchester United since last season during the 2-1 win over West Ham on the weekend.
Manchester United kicked off their Premier League Summer Series campaign with a 2-1 win over West Ham at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
The Reds made a bright start and looked noticeably sharper and fitter than their opponents throughout the contest.
That early energy paid off when Ayden Heaven capitalised on a goalkeeping error to win a penalty, which Bruno Fernandes calmly tucked away.
Ruben Amorim would have been encouraged by the high intensity shown in the first half, as well as some confident play in possession.
United maintained that momentum after the break and doubled their lead thanks to Kobbie Mainoo, who won the ball high up the pitch before feeding Fernandes — the captain finishing with a delicate lob over the keeper.
West Ham pulled one back through Jarrod Bowen following a swift counterattack, but United saw out the remainder of the game to claim victory in their pre-season opener.
Amorim reveals biggest United change from last season
United started the game strongly and it was refreshing to see their good work finally translating to goals. The opener came after just five minutes.
So often last term, Amorim’s side would have early chances but fail to take them before being punished themselves, which frustrated fans.
The United boss believes that this was the biggest difference during the win over West Ham, although he also explained his wish for the team to hold onto the ball for longer periods in the right moments.
“It was completely different from last season,” Amorim told club media. “We didn’t suffer, we scored and that can help a team to play better.
“We had some good possessions, we played well one against one, we pressed high and it helped us to win the ball sometimes.
“I think we need to have more long possessions when we win the ball, to try and find the small spaces and work the ball a little bit more.”
United press was fantastic
United were still slightly wasteful in moments against the Hammers but the early signs were positive for Amorim, particularly with the team in the press.
That was partly down to the work of Kobbie Mainoo and Manuel Ugarte in the middle of the park, who were both excellent out of possession during the game.
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United will be adding extra firepower to the attack through Bryan Mbeumo, although the Cameroon international will not be playing the next game against Bournemouth.
Amorim has explained that the 25-year-old is still behind in training after missing out on the start of pre-season due to his prolonged transfer saga.
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