Rúben Amorim singles out two “quality” Manchester United stars who must become “more complete”

Following Manchester United’s FA Cup shootout win over Arsenal on Sunday evening, Rúben Amorim has issued a challenge to two “quality” players in his squad.

Manchester United advanced to the FA Cup fourth round after an intense penalty shootout victory over Arsenal on Sunday afternoon.

Arsenal controlled the early stages of the game, with most of the possession falling in their favor. Gabriel Martinelli thought he had opened the scoring after 20 minutes, only for his goal to be ruled offside, much to the frustration of the home crowd.

United began to assert themselves as the match progressed, and their persistence paid off shortly after the break. Bruno Fernandes delivered a touch of class, converting Alejandro Garnacho’s precise assist with a stunning finish past David Raya.

The game took a dramatic turn with 30 minutes left when Diogo Dalot received a second yellow card, reducing United to 10 men. Arsenal quickly capitalised on their advantage, with Gabriel Magalhães finding the back of the net to equalise.

Moments later, Arsenal were awarded a penalty after Kai Havertz was fouled, but Altay Bayındır came up with a crucial save to deny Martin Ødegaard.

Neither side could find a decisive goal in regular time or during extra time, as United’s resolute defence held firm against Arsenal’s onslaught. The match was ultimately decided in a penalty shootout.

United’s players were flawless from the spot, converting all five of their penalties. Bayındır turned hero once more, saving Kai Havertz’s effort to seal a 5-4 shootout victory and send Manchester United into the next round of the FA Cup.

Amorim issues challenge to Amad and Garnacho

While many were slightly surprised when it was announced that Garnacho had replaced Amad in the starting line-up, Amorim explained that the Ivorian winger had a minor injury, so he wanted to give Garnacho a chance.

Garnacho went on to play a fantastic 80 minutes, including his assist for Fernandes, and in his post-match press conference, Amorim explained that he believes the 20-year-old has the “quality” to become a fantastic forward.

“Part of the idea then, like I said, with the ball we had some difficulties,” Amorim said when initially asked if he is seeing his idea for United come to life.

“I think players like Garnacho, who want to play open, playing inside, they need to suffer. I can put them open, but then I will have to change the idea, and then it will take more time. I think it is also good for a player with the quality.”

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However, the 39-year-old also went on to issue a challenge to both players, explaining that they must become better at playing both out wide and inside the pitch to become more complete players.

“For example, like Garnacho and Amad, if they are able to play inside and outside, they will be so much more complete,” he explained.

“So, I think the idea still needs a lot of time, but in that part of the spirit to suffer, to understanding the game, to make some pauses. No, on the game, I think we are improving.”

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