As Manchester United prepare to welcome incoming manager Ruben Amorim, club legend Paul Scholes has raised concerns about whether certain players are suitable for the Portuguese coach’s tactical system.
Scholes Doubts Rashford and Garnacho in Amorim’s Tactical Setup
Amorim, who will officially take the reins at Old Trafford on Monday, has been known for his preference for a three-at-the-back formation, varying between a 3-4-3, a 3-4-2-1, and a 3-5-2.
Following an exhilarating victory over Manchester City, Amorim will conclude his tenure as Sporting Lisbon’s head coach with a match against Braga this weekend.
His arrival at Manchester United is anticipated to bring a significant shift in tactics, particularly in the roles and responsibilities of the players.
Scholes, speaking ahead of United’s Europa League game against PAOK on TNT Sports, expressed doubts about the adaptability of Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho, Diogo Dalot, and Noussair Mazraoui to Amorim’s system.
His primary concern lies in their willingness and ability to perform the defensive duties required in Amorim’s preferred setup.
“There are three or four players, especially forward players, who don’t want to do the ugly side of the game. He’s going to have to make them do that,” Scholes remarked.
He specifically questioned whether Rashford and Garnacho would be willing to track back, a crucial aspect for wing-backs in Amorim’s formation.
“Does he want wingers who are going to run back? If he wants that, I’m not sure Rashford and Garnacho are right for that,” he added.
Scholes also cast doubt on the offensive capabilities of Dalot and Mazraoui, suggesting that while they may be defensively sound, they might lack the necessary forward thrust in a wing-back role.
“Does he want two wing-backs in Dalot and Mazraoui who might be a little bit better defensively but not as good going forward?” he questioned.
In addition to his concerns, Scholes pointed out that Kobbie Mainoo could play a pivotal role under Amorim, potentially thriving in a more advanced position on the pitch.
“He has then got his two no10s. Fernandes is one of them and I actually think Mainoo could be one of them too. I think he’ll be better player higher up, it will suit it more,” Scholes suggested.
As Amorim prepares to implement his tactical philosophy at Manchester United, it remains to be seen how the squad will adapt to the changes and whether Scholes’ concerns will be addressed.
The transformation could lead to a reshuffling of roles and responsibilities, challenging some players to adjust their game to fit the new system.
Fans and pundits alike will be watching closely to see how Amorim’s arrival will shape the future of the Red Devils.
