Find out what changes Ruben Amorim made to Manchester United for the 2025/26 season
Manchester United began the new Premier League season with a familiar setback, falling 1-0 to Arsenal at Old Trafford in Ruben Amorim’s first game of the campaign. Despite a summer of expectations, many fans believe the Portuguese manager’s adjustments have been more about personnel than philosophy.
Same system, new faces
Amorim has stuck with his trademark 3-4-3 formation, using Diogo Dalot and Patrick Dorgu as wing-backs and keeping three centre-backs to shield the goalkeeper. In midfield, Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes continue as the central duo, tasked with dictating play.
The biggest tweaks came in attack. Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha started alongside Mason Mount against Arsenal, while summer signing Benjamin Sesko is expected to take on a central role in the coming weeks.
Fans critical of lack of evolution
On social media, supporters expressed frustration, claiming the team looked much like last season’s version, which finished in 15th place and missed out on European football after a Europa League final defeat to Tottenham. Critics argue that swapping names in the lineup without tactical evolution won’t be enough to rescue United’s form.
Amorim under pressure
The loss to Arsenal marked Ruben Amorim’s 18th defeat in charge of Manchester United, out of 43 matches since his arrival. His contract runs until June 2027, but the pressure is mounting as the Red Devils now face a season competing only in domestic tournaments.
