Manchester United manager, Ruben Amorim, has insisted he will not abandon his tactical approach despite the club’s disappointing start to the season, which worsened after a 3–0 derby defeat to Manchester City on Sunday.
United have managed only four points from their first four Premier League matches and were also knocked out of the League Cup by fourth-tier side Grimsby Town. Since Amorim’s appointment in November last year, the Red Devils have won just eight of 31 league games, finishing 15th in the previous campaign.
When questioned about a possible change to his preferred 3-4-3 formation, the Portuguese tactician firmly dismissed the idea.
“I understand the concerns and I accept them. It’s not the kind of record Manchester United should have,” Amorim said.
“I’m not going to change. When I decide to change my philosophy, I will. Otherwise, you have to change the men (players). I will play my way until I choose to do differently.”
Despite the poor run, the United hierarchy has continued to back him, having invested £200 million ($271 million) in reinforcing the forward line during the summer. But with just four league goals scored so far, two coming from opposition own goals and one from the penalty spot, the pressure is mounting.
Among the new arrivals, Matheus Cunha missed the derby due to injury, while £74 million striker Benjamin Sesko struggled to make an impact on his first start.
Amorim remains defiant and committed: “My message is that I’m going to give everything. I will always think about what is best for the club. Until I’m here, I will do my best. I really want to win games. I’m suffering more than the fans.”
United went into the derby sitting above City in the league table for the first time in five years, but Pep Guardiola’s side, fresh from back-to-back defeats to Tottenham and Brighton, responded strongly.
City are now six points adrift of leaders Liverpool, and Guardiola hopes the derby win can reignite their campaign.
“Winning games, especially in the derby, you see the faces of our fans, the joy and happiness, it always helps,” the City manager said.
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