Leny Yoro has had a successful pre-season tour at Manchester United and he has some specific demands from Ruben Amorim in his role.
Manchester United wrapped up their U.S. tour by winning the Premier League Summer Series, and it was largely a productive couple of weeks for the Reds.
After a 0-0 draw with Leeds in Sweden, United kicked off their U.S. campaign with a 2-1 win over West Ham, followed by a dominant 4-1 victory against Bournemouth. A 2-2 draw with Everton proved more challenging, but United still topped the standings to claim the trophy.
For Ruben Amorim, the tour offered encouraging signs on the pitch, alongside a few clear areas still in need of improvement.
One of the positives of the trip was the performances of Leny Yoro, who seems to only be growing in confidence in his wide centre-back role.
Yoro reveals exactly what Amorim is demanding from him
Yoro, 19, had a positive debut campaign at Old Trafford despite the team’s overall struggles. He was one of United’s best players during a turbulent time on the pitch.
Since the beginning of pre-season, the Frenchman has showcased his improving passing ability, especially in terms of switches of play. He is not afraid to carry the ball forward into the final third.
His aggression in and out of possession seem like crucial attributes for the wide centre-backs in Amorim’s system. If those players do not step forward enough, then the shape can be taken advantage of by opponents.
Yoro has explained that his ball carrying and forward-thinking nature in possession is something that Amorim is demanding from him and he is more than happy to follow those instructions.
“I think it’s important for us to have this, to bring the ball forward to help the midfielders and strikers, to get the ball there,” Yoro told club media after the Everton clash.
“The coach asked me to do it so I need to do it, I enjoy doing it, to be in front. If I can bring the ball forward I will do it every time.”
United’s wide centre-backs are crucial
Like in any system, there are crucial roles in Amorim’s which need to be followed correctly in order to succeed. Most of the time, people mention the wingbacks in this aspect.
But the wide centre-backs might be even more important, especially out of possession. If they are not- aggressive when stepping out of the backline, the two-man midfield can be overran.
Read More: Manchester United 2-2 Everton – Five things noticed as stars unique role becomes clear (pre-season)
Yoro has the exact attributes needed to play this role, and Ayden Heaven is another who looks like he can match the demands of Amorim.
If those players are performing well then it is much more likely that the team looks better heading into the new season.
Make sure to follow UtdDistrict on X, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok to never miss out on any of our Manchester United content. Our podcast, What the Devil?, is streamed live every Thursday at 12:30 pm (BST) on the United View YouTube channel.