Man United haven’t won at Anfield since 2016 – and it’s time for Ruben Amorim to break the record books
Jeremy joined the Daily Star in 2010 as Manchester football correspondent and has been chief sports writer for over 10 years. He provides expert coverage of Manchester United and Manchester City, the entire Premier League and English football teams. Jeremy has covered Wimbledon, golf majors and the Olympics, as well as the soccer, rugby and cricket World Cups.
Sometimes I feel it’s best to stick with what works. Don’t change your winning formula or anything like that.
But an unconvincing win against Sunderland at Old Trafford doesn’t mean Ruben Amorim needs to head to Anfield this weekend with his head held high and his chest held high. Beating a team that had been out of the top flight for six seasons is nothing to be proud of.
And the challenge of playing against Liverpool in one of the most intimidating stadiums in world football is something entirely different. Matheus Cunha has revealed that he is willing to play in any position Amorim requests. But he misses the point. Instead, Cunha should tell Amorim to choose him in the position that is most effective for him, the position where he can be most effective.
read more: Bruno Fernandes of Manchester United’s four star players to miss training days before game against Liverpool
It’s a number 10 role and his talent on the ball and ability to beat opponents could hurt Liverpool’s defense, which has been questionable this season.
Cunha talks about the ‘privilege’ of wearing the famous United shirt. However, for a large contractor like him, it is also something that weighs on him like a heavy burden. And he needs to stop talking about how grateful he is to be at United and focus on helping United become successful again.
A win at Anfield would be a great starting point. And Amorim needs to do what other managers have done recently and exploit the weaknesses in Liverpool’s defense.
They need players like Cunha, Brian Mbeumo and Bruno Fernandes to slot in behind Liverpool’s back four.
Show some respect for the reigning champion, but don’t overdo it.
Amorim should break with tradition and ditch the 3-4-3 in favor of a 4-2-3-1 formation. He needs protection in front of the defensive line, with Manuel Ugarte and Casemiro providing the shield and foundation for United’s more attacking stars to develop.
United have a front line that rivals the best around them. But what’s the point if this isn’t being exploited?
Amorim argues that even the Pope himself was unable to persuade the pope to change his approach and system, which continues to fail.
This is ironic. Because if he doesn’t, Amorim may have to rely on divine intervention at Anfield this weekend.
And that’s never a good place to be a manager.
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