Ruben Amorims Best Manchester United Lineup
Ruben Amorim has begun his work at Manchester United, having taken his first training sessions this week. The former Sporting boss has already started implementing his play style into his United squad but must now find out what players create his best lineup.
Amorim tends to switch between a 3-4-3 and a 3-4-2-1, either opting for two number 10’s or two wingers. Both options can work with the current crop of United players but finding what operates best will be the first of many challenges.
The core of the side will build itself with a number of players almost guaranteed to begin shaping the squad. However, the choice of formation then opens up the debate for the remaining positions.
Defenders
Matthijs de Ligt, Lisandro Martinez and Leny Yoro are likely to shape the back three. It seems the most logical choice and on paper is by far the strongest selection.
Of course there are likely to be injuries and then you turn to other options. Luke Shaw is experienced as a centre back with the likes of Harry Maguire and Jonny Evans also available if called upon.
Noussair Mazraoui and Diogo Dalot will likely play as the wing backs. Both were consistent performers under Erik Ten Hag and would be the perfect mix of energy and stability playing in the wide positions.
Midfielders
Another area of the pitch that builds itself but can offer more rotational options. Kobbie Mainoo and Manuel Ugarte seem the likely options to sit as the two central midfielders.
However, Mason Mount and Casemiro can also provide strong options in that position. Casemiro and Ugarte have shown their strength as a duo under interim manager Ruud van Nistelrooy and could be the first midfield duo when United play Ipswich Town this weekend.
Mount will be hungry to prove himself to the new United boss. A number of injuries have limited his progress since moving to Old Trafford and a new system provides the Englishman with a chance to really kick start his career at United.
Forwards
The hardest selection on the pitch. Does Amorim opt for a 3-4-3 or a 3-4-2-1?
If he was to go for two tens, Amad Diallo and Bruno Fernandes currently seem to be the best options. However, Joshua Zirkzee could stake his claim in a better suited role rather than playing as a nine.
In front of the two tens, Rasmus Hojlund is the natural choice. Marcus Rashford is a strong option and could thrive as the nine once again with a chance to return to his goalscoring form under the new regime.
If Amorim opts for the 3-4-3, Alejandro Garnacho would likely feature as one of the wingers. Amad has also proved that he should be a starter but question marks are raised on where Fernandes, Rashford and Hojlund fit into that system.
Fernandes and Amad are two players who should be guaranteed to play a part in the side. Both players have proved to be United's best attacking outlets in recent months and perform consistently to a high standard.
Best XI
Amorim has tough decisions to make when it comes to team selection. However, having so much talent available to choose from is something that any manager would see as a positive.
Below you can find my choice for Amorims best United side.
3-4-2-1
Onana
Yoro - De Ligt - Martinez
Dalot - Mainoo - Ugarte - Mazraoui
Amad - Fernandes
Rashford