Ruben Amorim’s first Man Utd lineup vs Ipswich predicted as key stars lacking for brand new boss

On Nov 22, 2024

Ruben Amorim has to make some tough decisions ahead of his first match as Manchester United manager at Ipswich Town on Sunday.

The Red Devils are likely to adopt Amorim’s preferred 3-4-3 formation, a significant shift from the 4-2-3-1 system they were accustomed to under former boss Erik ten Hag. The new gaffer’s preparations for the clash at Portman Road have been disrupted by players being away on international duty this week, with some only returning to United on Thursday.

Given these circumstances, Amorim has a conundrum regarding his starting XI for his debut game, with player fitness and availability throughout the week expected to play a crucial role. Manuel Ugarte, who previously played under Amorim at Sporting Lisbon and is anticipated to be a key figure in his plans, also started all four games under former interim manager Ruud van Nistelrooy.

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However, with Ugarte only returning from international duty on Thursday, having played the full 90 minutes in Uruguay’s 1-1 draw with Brazil on Tuesday, he may not be considered fit enough to start. It seems more probable that Amorim will opt for a midfield duo of Casemiro and Kobbie Mainoo, both of whom trained all week, despite the latter not having played since an injury lay-off early last month.

In defence, Amorim could potentially field a back three of Matthijs De Ligt, Jonny Evans and Lisandro Martinez, with Noussair Mazraoui and Diogo Dalot taking up the wing-back positions. Leny Yoro, a £59million summer signing who has yet to make his debut for United due to a serious pre-season injury, might also feature after being withdrawn from the Under-21s squad set to face Altrincham on Tuesday, although it’s unlikely he’ll start, reports the Mirror.

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The attacking line-up leaves three spots open, with captain Bruno Fernandes guaranteed one. The remaining two are up for grabs between Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho, Amad, Mason Mount and Rasmus Hojlund, while Joshua Zirkzee and Antony are expected to be benched.

Despite not featuring in Argentina’s 1-0 victory over Peru on Tuesday, Garnacho may be overlooked in favour of Amad, who has been training under Amorim all week. Andre Onana’s position as goalkeeper seems secure for now, with new goalkeeping coach Jorge Vital tasked with improving his comfort and skill playing out from the back – an area that was lacking under Ten Hag.

Here’s how United could line up in Amorim’s first game at the helm: (3-4-3) Onana, De Ligt, Evans, Martinez; Dalot, Casemiro, Mainoo, Mazraoui, Amad, Rashford, Fernandes