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Amorim’s First Man Utd Win: A Tale of Anxiety and Triumph

Rúben Amorim’s journey at Manchester United began with a spectacle befitting the grand stage of Old Trafford. The 39-year-old Portuguese tactician, newly installed as manager, oversaw a pulsating 3-2 victory over Bodo/Glimt in the Europa League. It was a debut marked by relief, anxiety, and glimpses of promise for the future.

Amorim, known for his meticulous tactics and bold ideas, faces a daunting task: implementing a wing-back system at a club steeped in traditional formations and already mired in an injury crisis. His first home victory provided hope, but the emotional toll was evident.

Anxiety in Transition: Amorim’s Challenges at United

For Amorim, stepping into the Manchester United hot seat mid-season is a gamble not without risks. His wing-back system is a departure from the norm at United, and he is keenly aware of the challenges of introducing such a seismic shift.

“We don’t control anything at the moment,” he admitted to TNT Sports. “I don’t know the players, and we have not worked a lot together. You go to the game excited, but at the same time, you are nervous because you don’t know how the game will go.”

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Amorim has had precious little time to work with his squad. Two full training sessions preceded his Premier League debut against Ipswich, and another two led into this Europa League clash. Fixture congestion remains relentless, forcing him to devise creative solutions, such as intensive training sessions for non-starters the day after matches. Whether this approach will yield long-term success remains to be seen.

Tactical Evolution on Display

The match itself offered a window into Amorim’s tactical adjustments. United started brightly with Alejandro Garnacho netting within 48 seconds. Yet defensive lapses allowed Bodo/Glimt to respond with two quick goals, leaving the hosts trailing by half-time.

A spirited fightback followed, spearheaded by Rasmus Højlund’s brace. The Danish striker demonstrated the aggression and poise Amorim demands, scoring twice to pull United ahead.

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“We controlled more of the tempo, pushed the team higher up the pitch, and created more chances,” Amorim noted post-match. However, his frustration with missed opportunities lingered. Garnacho squandered a golden chance, and Marcus Rashford fired wide late in the game, leaving Amorim lamenting: “We should kill the game before the end.”

Still, Amorim praised his players’ effort. “I like the way the players tried to play our game. They are really trying, and I think we deserved the win.”

Højlund’s Key Role and Areas for Growth

Central to Amorim’s tactical vision is the performance of his number nine. The system requires a striker capable of not only scoring but also holding up play and linking with midfield runners. Against Ipswich, Rashford struggled in the role, but Højlund’s performance against Bodo/Glimt was far more encouraging.

“He has to improve more because sometimes he gives too many touches when he holds the ball,” Amorim reflected. “But he is very important when we are in a low block because he connects in the transitions.”

Højlund’s contributions in the box were critical. “For the goals, he was aggressive in the box. He is a quality player, scores the most difficult goals, and did a great job today,” Amorim said. Yet, he was quick to temper expectations, noting that the Dane was “dead” with fatigue by the end of the game.

Embracing the Challenge and the Fans

The schedule offers no respite for Amorim. Manchester United face games every three to four days until the end of the year, with potential Carabao Cup progress extending this gruelling run into January. Yet the new manager appears to thrive under the pressure.

“It was special because I came from Portugal and half of the stadium doesn’t know me,” he said, reflecting on the warm reception from United fans. “I have done nothing for this club yet, but the way they support me from the beginning made me feel I am not alone now, that I am one of them. I hope not to disappoint them.”

That support will be vital as Amorim navigates the challenges ahead. Injury concerns persist, with Tyrell Malacia unable to complete the first half and Luke Shaw still building match fitness. Mason Mount, making his first start since August, also represents a work in progress.

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Despite these obstacles, Amorim’s debut offered reasons for optimism. His tactical blueprint is starting to take shape, and the players are responding to his demands. With Garnacho, Rashford, and Højlund providing sparks in attack, United fans may dare to hope for a more consistent second half of the season.

A Special Start, but More to Prove

Amorim’s first win at Manchester United was a reminder of both the potential and the peril of his ambitious project. The wing-back system is far from perfected, but glimpses of its effectiveness were on display. As the players adapt to his methods and injured stars return to full fitness, there is cause for cautious optimism.

For now, Amorim savours a special night at Old Trafford but remains firmly grounded. “I hope not to disappoint them,” he said. It’s a sentiment that reflects both his humility and his hunger to succeed.