Rasmus Hojlund will score a lot of goals with my tactics. This is how my tactics works and most Manchester United players will benefit from it while other will go.”-Rúben Amorim explains his tactics for Manchester United and reveals how it will help the players especially Rasmus Hojlund.

Ruben Amorim, the renowned Portuguese coach, seems primed to take his first step into the Premier League as Manchester United sets its sights on his appointment. After past speculation linking him to Liverpool and West Ham United, it’s now Manchester United that looks set to secure his services. Amorim, who is widely respected across Europe, has crafted a winning reputation at Sporting CP, where he has captured multiple Primeira Liga titles, thanks to his strategic brilliance and progressive ideas.

Manchester United sees Amorim as the ideal successor to Erik ten Hag, recently let go after a series of underwhelming performances. At 39, Amorim brings to the role an innovative approach to tactics, a fresh perspective on formations, and his own distinct coaching philosophy. Yet, Old Trafford is a stage with immense pressures and limited patience, making this a challenging endeavor.

Amorim is fortunate to inherit a squad rich in talent, but his first and most immediate task will be boosting player morale and instilling his style of play. The coach will likely have envisioned his ideal lineup as he begins to strategize for his new team. Here’s a closer look at how 90min anticipates Amorim’s Manchester United lineup might shape up:

Goalkeeper: Andre Onana Andre Onana has shown significant improvement compared to last season, displaying greater consistency during the 2024/25 campaign. Despite previous struggles, Onana’s skill in building play from the back aligns well with Amorim’s possession-heavy philosophy. Known for his distribution skills during his time at Inter, Onana is expected to thrive even more under Amorim’s guidance.

Center Back: Leny Yoro After joining United this summer, 18-year-old Leny Yoro has yet to make his debut due to injury. However, once fit, he is anticipated to make a strong impression. Amorim’s three-man defense relies on defenders who are comfortable with the ball at their feet, capable of breaking through lines with precise passes—a style that suits Yoro’s abilities.

Center Back: Matthijs de Ligt Though Matthijs de Ligt has had a mixed run at United so far, his talent is undeniable. Amorim’s system might place de Ligt in a central role in a back three, providing additional protection and support, which could help him stabilize and shine.

Center Back: Lisandro Martinez Known for his aggressive playing style and technical skill, Lisandro Martinez is an ideal candidate for the left-sided center-back position in Amorim’s setup. A back three would allow Martinez to contribute to United’s play-building and press upfield without his shorter stature being a drawback.

Right Midfielder: Diogo Dalot In Amorim’s tactical framework, wing-backs play a pivotal role, requiring players who can push forward. Dalot, while not the most attacking full-back in the league, has proven himself a capable offensive contributor. His familiarity with Amorim’s style should allow him to develop a strong partnership on the right flank.

Central Midfield: Kobbie Mainoo Young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo has shown tremendous potential, and Amorim, known for nurturing midfield talent, will likely help him grow further. Mainoo could be an essential player in Amorim’s lineup, embodying the work ethic and technical prowess to execute the manager’s vision.

Central Midfield: Manuel Ugarte Manuel Ugarte, who thrived under Amorim’s coaching at Sporting CP, might find a resurgence in form at United. Although his Manchester tenure has had its ups and downs, Amorim’s structured system could help Ugarte excel and rediscover his rhythm.

Left Midfielder: Luke Shaw Much like Dalot, Luke Shaw will be expected to contribute width and energy on the left side. Shaw’s stamina and physicality are assets in this role, but durability may remain a concern, given his injury history.

Right Wing: Bruno Fernandes In Amorim’s approach, the traditional No. 10 role is often sacrificed, meaning Bruno Fernandes may need to adapt. He may find himself deployed as a right-sided midfielder or in a deeper central position, similar to Pedro Goncalves’ role at Sporting, allowing him to influence wide areas and link up with the central midfield.

Striker: Rasmus Hojlund Amorim’s reputation for developing forwards could prove transformative for Rasmus Hojlund. Like Viktor Gyokeres, who flourished at Sporting, Hojlund possesses the physicality and hold-up play Amorim values, and the young Danish striker may find his role elevated under Amorim’s watchful eye.

Left Wing: Alejandro Garnacho Although Marcus Rashford’s experience is valuable, Alejandro Garnacho’s youthful vigor and current form may make him Amorim’s preferred choice on the left wing. Garnacho’s speed, agility, and skill align naturally with Amorim’s aggressive, attack-oriented philosophy.

With his tactical vision and inventive style, Amorim has a robust foundation to build upon. The coming months will put his adaptability and resilience to the test, but fans can look forward to an exciting transformation on the pitch as Amorim brings his unique touch to Manchester United.