Manchester United’s new manager, Ruben Amorim, has introduced a fresh coaching approach in a bid to rejuvenate the club’s season.
The 39-year-old Portuguese tactician has appointed specialised coaches for each key area of the team, a significant departure from the traditional methods employed by his predecessor, Erik ten Hag.
His strategy considered a modern take on football coaching, involves assigning coaches to work exclusively with defenders, midfielders, and forwards.
This contrasts with the more conventional system where a head coach oversees the entire squad during training sessions.
Upon his arrival during the international break, Amorim brought a trusted group of staff to Carrington, Manchester United’s training ground.
His backroom team includes assistant head coach Carlos Fernandes, goalkeeper coach Jorge Vital, and first-team coaches Adelio Candido and Emanuel Ferro. Paulo Barreira joins as the physical performance coach.
This team complements existing United staff, including first-team coaches Darren Fletcher and Andreas Georgson, as well as assistant goalkeeping coach Craig Mawson.
Each coach will focus on specific areas of the squad, aiming to enhance individual and collective performances.
Fernandes, who has worked closely with Amorim at Braga and Casa Pia, will focus on the strikers. “Everyone has a role, and they may be more important than me,” Amorim remarked, underscoring his staff’s value.
He has already implemented his preferred 3-4-3 formation, a tactical shift from the flat back-four employed under Ten Hag.
The system, which he successfully used at Sporting Lisbon, was deployed in his first two matches: a draw against Ipswich and a dramatic 3-2 Europa League victory over Bodo/Glimt.
The manager is confident his squad will adapt, with the support of his coaching team. “We’re breaking down the game into individual and team components,” Amorim explained. “For example, Carlos works closely with the strikers, showing them specific moments to improve. It’s about tailoring our approach to each player’s needs.”
Amorim has been touched by the warm reception from Manchester United supporters. “I’ve done nothing for this club yet, but the way they’ve welcomed me is special,” he said. “The Old Trafford crowd is hungry for success, and we want to deliver. This is a moment I’ll cherish throughout my career.”
As the new head looks to build momentum, his innovative coaching setup and tactical changes aim to guide Manchester United back to winning ways. With a renewed focus on individual and team development, the club is poised to tackle the challenges ahead.
