Rúben Amorim's dynamic attacking philosophy, coupled with his disciplined defensive approach, has made him a top candidate for managing in the Premier League. Appointed as Manchester United's new head coach, he becomes the sixth permanent manager at Old Trafford since Sir Alex Ferguson's departure in 2013.

What tactical impact will Amorim bring to Manchester United, and which players might thrive under his system? Let's explore his style and its potential influence on the team's starting lineup.

Amorim's Tactical Philosophy

During his tenure at Sporting CP, Amorim implemented a system built around central dominance, leveraging players like Gonçalo Inácio and Daniel Bragança to drive attacking transitions. His full-backs alternated between crossing-focused roles and aggressive pressing, while the midfield displayed remarkable athleticism and tackling ability, ensuring long spells of possession.

The hallmark of Amorim's strategy is the flexibility between a three-at-the-back formation for defensive solidity and offensive fluidity, often morphing into a 4-3-3 when building through the center. This system creates space for advanced players, enabling them to exploit opportunities in wide and central areas.

Predicted XI and Tactical Adjustments

Option A: Familiar Faces Shine in Amorim's Setup

With Manuel Ugarte already at United, Amorim could rely on his former player's understanding of the system. Ugarte's tenacity, ball-winning skills, and ability to cover wide spaces make him a natural fit in the midfield.

Youngster Kobbie Mainoo could emerge as a key player, bringing organization and energy akin to Hidemasa Morita under Amorim's Sporting system. Casemiro, despite his age, remains a crucial defensive presence, shielding the backline effectively.

In defense, Lisandro Martínez's composure and passing range suit Amorim's preference for ball-playing center-backs, though his occasional struggles in defending open spaces might require cover. The physicality of Teden Mengi could also make him a useful option in a back-three setup.

In attack, Rasmus Højlund appears primed to lead the line. With his pace and preference for central runs, he could develop into a versatile forward under Amorim, similar to Viktor Gyökeres' evolution at Sporting. Bruno Fernandes is likely to continue thriving in his advanced midfield role, orchestrating play and supporting the striker.

Amorim's approach could also benefit goalkeeper André Onana, who may rely more on short passing to evade pressing opponents, helping to initiate attacks from the back.

Potential XI:

Onana – Martínez, De Ligt, Mengi – Shaw, Mainoo, Ugarte, Dalot – Rashford, Fernandes, Højlund

Option B: Rotations and Tactical Tweaks

Should some players struggle to adapt to Amorim's philosophy, rotations might become a key feature of his tenure. Matthijs de Ligt could anchor the defense, with Harry Maguire offering depth. In the wide areas, Alejandro Garnacho and Antony might provide width and directness, depending on the opposition.

Christian Eriksen's creativity may make him an asset in certain situations, though his defensive limitations could see him rotated with more robust options like Casemiro. Mason Mount, once fully fit, could compete for an advanced midfield role, adding pressing intensity to the lineup.

In attack, Jadon Sancho or Amad Diallo could support Højlund in a fluid frontline, while Joshua Zirkzee provides depth from the bench.

Potential XI:

Onana – Martínez, Maguire, Mengi – Antony, Ugarte, Casemiro, Mazraoui – Garnacho, Højlund, Amad

Challenges and Long-Term Goals

A 3-4-3 formation, while offering structural advantages, demands physically capable players who can execute high-pressing and counter-pressing strategies. Previous United managers attempted such approaches but reverted to counter-attacking styles due to inconsistent results.

To break this cycle, Amorim must instill a cohesive identity and secure several transfer windows to reshape the squad according to his vision. This process could bring much-needed stability and direction to a club searching for a clear path forward.

By integrating his tactical principles and building around adaptable players, Amorim has the opportunity to establish a new era at Manchester United, creating a team capable of sustained success.