Ruben Amorim has claimed that Manchester United is “stealing” set-piece tactics from other teams, following their 2-1 victory over Crystal Palace, which was secured with two goals from free-kicks.
After trailing at Selhurst Park, United rallied in the second half, scoring through Joshua Zirkzee and Mason Mount, both of which were set up by Bruno Fernandes.
This season, Amorim’s team has now netted 10 Premier League goals from set-pieces, tied for the highest with league leaders Arsenal.
“We invest a lot of time into this,” Amorim remarked when discussing United’s improved set-piece execution.
“We have more opportunities to train, and we learn a great deal in England. While you may be accustomed to certain methods, when you enter the Premier League, you discover new strategies from other teams that you can adapt to score goals.”
United appeared on track for yet another setback after their loss to 10-man Everton, as they entered halftime trailing 1-0 due to a re-taken penalty scored by Jean-Philippe Mateta.
However, their performance significantly improved after the break, marking just their second league win away from home since March.
“I told the players we need to bring more energy, and you could see the difference,” Amorim stated.
– Mason Mount, Joshua Zirkzee lead Man United’s comeback against Crystal Palace
– Zirkzee takes charge in Man United’s comeback during a contrasting second half vs. Palace
– Premier League standings
“When you’re more alert, you find yourself in more positions and closer to the ball. I believe everyone did that.”
“But we also must recognize that our opponents were fatigued in the second half.”
“When we upped our intensity and they tired, we quickly capitalized. You could sense that we took control of the match from there.”