Ruben Amorim would have learned much more about his Manchester United players against Ipswich than he did during training.
It was the 39-year-old’s first proper glimpse of his players in action since being appointed as Manchester United head coach.
Ruben Amorim only had two training sessions with a full squad before Sunday’s 1-1 draw with Ipswich Town so he did sympathise with his players.
However, Amorim was also frustrated on the sidelines at repeated mistakes from his players as they try to adapt to his 3-4-3 formation.
He made some bold calls in the confirmed starting XI to face Ipswich, including wing-back roles for Diogo Dalot and Amad Diallo.
What Ruben Amorim said about Diogo Dalot vs Ipswich
While Amad was “terrific” in a wing-back role on the right, Dalot frustrated Amorim with his positioning.
After the full-time whistle, Amorim pointed out that Dalot is having to adapt to new instructions after being asked to come inside and join the midfield under Erik ten Hag.
In the new system, Amorim wants Dalot to stay wide and provide width. The new United boss claimed many of his players were “overthinking” against Ipswich and Dalot certainly falls into that category.
“Dalot used to pass the ball to centre backs and go inside and play as a midfielder,” Amorim said. “Now he has to stick to this position.”
The left-back or left wing-back spot has been an issue for United all season with Dalot filling in for Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia after their lengthy injuries.
After just one match in charge, Amorim has already decided he wants a new signing in that position.
Fabrizio Romano says Ruben Amorim will sign a new left wing-back
Even before Amorim’s arrival, United had been linked with buying a new left-back.
Fabrizio Romano has now confirmed via his YouTube channel that Amorim has asked United chiefs to sign a new left wing-back in 2025.
“Man United want to go for a proper left-back,” Romano said. “Ruben Amorim is very happy with Diogo Dalot as a player, professional, can play several positions, top leader, big professional. So very happy with Diogo Dalot.
“But, they need a player who can cover that position on a regular basis. Obviously Dalot can play on the right. That’s his position actually, he is only helping on the left.
“And so, a new player in that position, a left-back remains a top priority. From what I’m hearing, even after the Ipswich game the message from Ruben Amorim to Manchester United management is that we need a player in that position in 2025.
“It could be in January, could be in the summer. It is based on opportunities, based on price, based on several factors. But, Manchester United want to go for a player in that position.”
Romano then confirmed that United are already drawing up a shortlist of options which includes Ineos’ dream signing Alphonso Davies.
“I have already mentioned Milos Kerkez from Bournemouth but there are also other candidates. From what I’m hearing, we know Manchester United are closely monitoring what happens between Real Madrid and Alphonso Davies.”
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