Ruben Amorim has indicated that he may shift from his usual 3-4-3 formation to a four-man defense in response to the absence of key players who will be participating in the Africa Cup of Nations.
Previously, Amorim expressed that not even the Pope could persuade him to abandon the successful back three strategy he implemented at Sporting CP.
However, following the departures of Amad Diallo, Bryan Mbeumo, and Noussair Mazraoui to AFCON, the Portuguese coach has suggested that a tactical change might be necessary.
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In training sessions, the team has been experimenting with different tactical setups, having adhered strictly to the 3-4-3 formation for over a year.
“It will depend on how we perform in that specific week,” said Amorim when discussing how to manage the absences of Amad, Mbeumo, and Mazraoui for an extended period. “If we need to switch to a four-man defense, then that’s what we’ll do.”
“My focus is solely on the upcoming match. We need to take it one step at a time,” he continued.
“We have a crucial game against Aston Villa, and we need to secure a win. We’re looking for different strategies, especially in the absence of Amad and Bryan, as we’ve lost certain qualities that are difficult to replace.”
Alongside the absences of Amad, Mbeumo, and Mazraoui, Amorim will also be without Casemiro, who received his fifth yellow card of the season in the 4-4 draw against Bournemouth.
This situation may open the door for Kobbie Mainoo to earn his first Premier League start since May.
Kobbie’s half-brother, Jordan Mainoo-Hames, made headlines on Monday at Old Trafford by wearing a “Free Kobbie Mainoo” T-shirt to protest his sibling’s limited game time this season.
In response, Amorim emphasized his desire to “minimize distractions and noise,” while remaining open to the idea of giving Mainoo playing time at Villa Park on Sunday.
“Kobbie is responsible for his actions, and he performed well in the last match. My primary focus is on that,” Amorim stated.
“I experienced a similar situation at Sporting when my brother posted something online, which I had to address. My response is that he has his own life and opinions, which are separate from me. I plan to approach the situation with Kobbie the same way.”
“Kobbie must compete for his place on the team. Being on the bench for Manchester United at just 20 years old is not a negative experience.”
“I remember [Cristiano] Ronaldo and [Wayne] Rooney occasionally being on the bench. Even [Juan] Veron wasn’t always given playing time. This club has a rich history, and it didn’t crumble under those circumstances.”
“He might start in the next match on Sunday,” concluded Amorim. “For now, let’s keep the focus on the team and work towards helping Kobbie develop as a player.”