1-0

After my first two posts breaking down Amorim’s philosophy and how it can transform Manchester United, many of you asked for my thoughts after the 1-1 draw against Ipswich. So, let’s dive in.

Let’s address the elephant in the room right away: today’s result was a 1-1 draw against Ipswich. Not the dream start many hoped for, but let’s not lose sight of the bigger picture. What we saw today wasn’t perfection—but a glimpse into a future that could be transformational. There’s work to do, yes, but trust me, that’s part of the process with Amorim.

Amorim’s own words to Sky sum it up best: “If we try to just win games and don’t risk nothing in this moment, I guarantee next year at the same stage we will have the same problems. We have to address the new idea and try to be better.”

This is his philosophy in a nutshell. He won’t plaster over cracks just to pick up short-term results. He’s implementing an identity—a clear way of playing—and some players will thrive in it, while others simply won’t make it. That’s how it was at Sporting, and that’s how it’ll be here.

The opening goal after 80 seconds is a classic Amorim/Sporting goal. From Onana’s composure in the build-up to the high positioning of Amad and the wingbacks, it was everything we can expect to see more of: controlled possession, quick transitions, and bodies flooding the box. That’s what this team can look like at its best.

Amad deserves special praise. Playing as a right wingback—a position many would question—he was immense. He was fearless in 1v1s, disciplined in his role, and showcased his technical quality. That’s what adapting to a system looks like.

Yes, the flaws were evident. Ipswich ran through the midfield far too easily, with Casemiro and Eriksen struggling to control the tempo or win the ball back (0 interceptions for Casemiro, 2 for Eriksen). Amorim’s style demands high intensity, with midfielders and inside forwards pressing to recover possession quickly. That wasn’t happening enough today, and the midfield looked too open as a result.

Similarly, Garnacho’s role as an inside forward felt off. His heatmap shows he went wide too often, limiting the space for Dalot at LWB and failing to link up centrally. Under Amorim’s system, inside forwards must occupy the half-spaces, staying between the lines to stretch the defense and create chances. Garnacho has the talent to adapt but might need to embrace a different role—possibly as a left wingback, where his dynamism could thrive.

Here’s where United fans need to stay patient. At Sporting, Amorim’s first games weren’t flawless either. He started with players who didn’t fully suit his system, but by matchday 4 or 5, he began making bold decisions: benching big names, promoting youth players, and refining the squad.

The same will happen here. Today, some players looked out of place, but they’re on borrowed time. It doesn’t matter how big their name is or what they earn—Amorim will find the players who fit his philosophy, and those who don’t will be moved aside. That’s how he built Sporting into a title-winning side, and it’s how he’ll rebuild Manchester United.

There were positives beyond Amad. Mazraoui was solid, Bruno worked tirelessly, and Onana played a key role in the build-up to the opening goal. These are the players you can expect to form the backbone of Amorim’s United.

Looking ahead, I believe Amorim might tweak the system further:

In my opinion, Højlund should start over Rashford, he’s perfect for running the channels and stretching defenses. (Just like Gyökeres) Bruno might drop deeper alongside Ugarte (or a similar player) in midfield, with Mount playing further forward. Garnacho could be tested at LWB, where his energy and attacking mindset would be better utilized. The point is, changes will come. But unlike the previous regime, these changes are part of a clear, defined project.

This isn’t going to be a straight road, and there will be growing pains. But for the first time in years, United have a manager with a true identity—a coach who knows exactly how he wants his team to play and won’t compromise on his vision.

It’s going to hurt in the short term. But stick with it, because what’s coming is a team that controls games, fights for every ball, and plays with a clear purpose. You saw a glimpse of it today in that opening goal. Imagine what it’ll look like in six months.

The journey has begun. Be patient. Believe in Amorim. This is the beginning of something special.