Rúben Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 system has been questioned since he first arrived at Manchester United, mainly because playing three at the back is no longer considered fashionable, and not many top teams use this approach.
However, Amorim has stood by his preferred tactical setup and has mentioned multiple times that he will stick to “the idea,” even if it means enduring challenges along the way until the players become familiar with the new formation.
Based on the sample we have seen so far, it seems certain that the squad will need adjustments and that new players will need to be added to fit the system’s specific demands.
Here are three key positions United must strengthen in the January transfer window to thrive under Amorim’s philosophy, listed in order of urgency and importance.
1. Wing-Backs
Arguably the most important position in a 3-4-2-1, wing-backs are pivotal in Amorim’s system, responsible for providing width in attack and transitioning quickly into defensive positions.
Manchester United currently lacks specialists for these demanding roles, as Diogo Dalot and Noussair Mazraoui are both natural right-footed full-backs rather than wing-backs who are not comfortable in that role.
The system requires players with more consistency in one-on-one situations and the stamina to contribute equally on both ends of the pitch. Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia are both injury-prone and have shown that they cannot be consistently relied upon for the left-footed wing-back position.
Milos Kerkez is enjoying an outstanding season with Bournemouth and could be the solution to Manchester United’s wing-back problems.
The 21-year-old, left-footed Hungarian international offers the attacking contributions needed from the left flank and possesses the dynamism and technical quality required for this role. However, his signing would likely come with a hefty price tag.
2. Ball-Playing Centre-Back
Amorim’s system relies heavily on a back three that can play out from the back with composure and precision.
While Lisandro Martínez fits this mould when fit, Manchester United lacks depth and consistency in this area. Leny Yoro, at 18 years of age, is still a work in progress and will need to be integrated smoothly into the starting lineup.
The team has triggered an option to extend Harry Maguire’s stay at the club until the summer of 2026. However, while he can be a valuable squad member, he is not exactly the player Amorim can rely on in the long term. A new centre-back comfortable with progressive passing and capable of covering wide areas in a back three is essential.
Gonçalo Inácio, who excelled under Amorim at Sporting, could be just the player Manchester United needs.
The 23-year-old defender earned his senior national team call-up under Amorim’s guidance and is renowned for his ability to play out from defence. He would undoubtedly strengthen United’s backline and make an immediate impact on the team.
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3. Central Midfield Dynamo
In a 3-4-2-1 system, the midfield duo must be dynamic, combining defensive solidity with the ability to dictate tempo.
Casemiro offers defensive coverage, but his mobility is diminishing, and his partner in midfield must complement him with energy, vision, and passing range. He could possibly play next to Ugarte in certain games, but it seems like his best days are behind him.
Christian Eriksen is comfortable on the ball and possesses exceptional passing skills but lacks the energy and dynamism required for a top Premier League team aiming to compete for trophies.
Kobbie Mainoo is Manchester United’s future and has displayed impressive maturity on the pitch since he broke into the first team under Ten Hag. However, it is crucial for the coaching staff to manage his development and playing time carefully, avoiding undue excessive that could hinder his growth or lead to burnout.
Douglas Luiz is an experienced Premier League player and well-rounded midfielder who can operate as a defensive midfielder, deep-lying playmaker, or even slightly advanced in a box-to-box role and can provide a quality solution.
While not a pure defensive midfielder, Luiz has strong tackling, interception skills, and positional discipline. Paired with Ugarte, who focuses more on ball recovery, Luiz could offer defensive contributions while adding creativity.
Potential Challenges
Adapting to Amorim’s system demands targeted reinforcements that will need to be approved by the manager and must fit into his tactical setup.
Specialized wing-backs, a ball-playing centre-back, and a dynamic central midfielder are critical upgrades to implement his style effectively.
With strategic investments in January, United could set the stage for a strong finish to the second half of the season, preparing for next season, where Amorim will have the opportunity to bring in the players he wants with a full pre-season ahead to train and implement his ideas.