Manchester United: Pre-season in the USA, Amorim’s Objectives and Key Figures

Ruben Amorim Faces a Crucial Summer at Manchester United

The Portuguese coach, Rúben Amorim, faces a decisive summer. After taking on a high-pressure position in the middle of the 2024-25 season, Amorim seeks to consolidate his project at Manchester United. With time on their side, fans hope to see progress during the team’s tour of the United States. The additions of Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, along with the departure of Marcus Rashford, have renewed the squad. Amorim has several challenges ahead, including important decisions before the start of the new Premier League season against Arsenal on August 17.

Manchester United Pre-Season Matches in the USA

• Manchester United vs. West Ham (East Rutherford, New Jersey; 7 p.m. ET)
• Manchester United vs. Bournemouth (Chicago, 9:30 p.m. ET)
• Manchester United vs. Everton (Atlanta, 5:30 p.m. ET)

Preseason Goals

1. Improve scoring ability

One of the main objectives is to improve the scoring ability. To this end, over 130 million pounds have been invested in the hiring of Cunha and Mbeumo. The connection between these players and captain Bruno Fernandes will be key for Amorim’s team to score more goals next season, starting in training in Chicago. The preseason began with a goalless draw against Leeds in Stockholm. The matches against West Ham, Bournemouth, and Everton will be crucial for developing the offensive strategies that Amorim wants to see in the Premier League.

2. Finding a position for Mbeumo

The arrival of Mbeumo is a great achievement for United. Now, Amorim must find the ideal position for him. He is expected to play in one of the “10” positions alongside Cunha in the 3-4-3 system, which could involve lining up Rasmus Hojlund or Joshua Zirkzee as the center forward. If Mbeumo plays as a “10”, Fernandes, Mason Mount, or Kobbie Mainoo could take the other position. This poses challenges in the team’s setup.

3. Manage distractions

Although Amorim has support to leave out Alejandro Garnacho, Antony, Jadon Sancho, and Tyrell Malacia, the situation is not completely resolved. The coach will have to address the questions about the future of these players and how long they will remain sidelined if their transfers are not finalized. Rashford’s departure before the tour is a positive step, and Amorim needs a quick solution for the others, especially Garnacho, to avoid distractions.

4. Decision in the goal

The situation in the goal is delicate. With André Onana injured and absent for a large part of the preseason, Altay Bayindir and Tom Heaton are the available goalkeepers. One of them might have to start in the first league match against Arsenal if Onana doesn’t recover in time. If funds are obtained through sales, United could consider reinforcing this position.

5. Evaluate the young

The absence of European competitions allows Amorim to work with a smaller squad and give opportunities to the youth players from the academy. Ayden Heaven and Chido Obi proved their worth last season. Players like Sékou Koné could stand out on the tour and earn a place in the team. The image shows Kobbie Mainoo, who could be the breakout star.

Star Player to Watch

Despite significant investments in Cunha and Mbeumo, Bruno Fernandes remains United’s most important player. After the injuries suffered last season, Amorim cannot afford to lose the Portuguese midfielder for long. Although he won’t be overly protected, Amorim needs Fernandes to be in form throughout the summer.

Three Promises That Could Stand Out

• Diego León: The Paraguayan left-back arrived this summer and had a positive impact in his debut against Leeds. He has competition with Patrick Dorgu at left-back, but Amorim has high hopes for this 18-year-old.
• Tyler Fredricson: The 20-year-old defender performed well when he was included in the first team at the end of last season. With the departures of Victor Lindelöf and Jonny Evans, he could get more minutes next season.
• Toby Collyer: He has been close to the first team for a while, and this could be his breakthrough season. Neither Casemiro nor Manuel Ugarte offer Amorim much mobility in midfield. Collyer has a lot of energy and enthusiasm, qualities that Amorim likes.