Man Utd analysis: The defenders likely to play in Ruben Amorim's 3-4-3 formation
Sporting CP, under Ruben Amorim's leadership, currently sit at the top of Liga Portugal with a flawless record - 10 wins in 10 matches, an impressive 35 goals scored and only three conceded.
Sporting's success has fans and analysts alike buzzing about Amorim's innovative 3-4-3 formation.
Sports News Blitz’s Noah Ngcobo takes a deep dive into Amorim’s formation to explore how it might reshape Manchester United’s defence - and he identifies the ideal players for each role.
Common misconception
A common misconception surrounding three-at-the-back formations is that they’re overly defensive or stifling.
However, it’s the approach to this set-up that determines its effectiveness and entertainment value.
When executed with the right tactics and personnel, a 3-4-3 can be highly dynamic and attack-focused.
Antonio Conte’s Chelsea, for instance, thrived with a rock-solid back three and lethal counter-attacks.
Xabi Alonso’s Bayer Leverkusen have also excelled with a three-at-the-back approach emphasising positional play, while Thomas Tuchel transformed Chelsea with this system, leading them to Champions League glory.
Simone Inzaghi's recent success with Inter Milan, where he reached a Champions League final and secured a Serie A title, also demonstrates how effective a back three can be when adapted to modern football’s demands.
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Expansive set-up
Defence is a fundamental part of Amorim’s system, but his back three operates in a unique, expansive set-up that serves as the bedrock for his style of play.
Unlike compact defences, Amorim’s back line spreads out during attacks, providing possession support and enabling the formation's key features.
This expansive shape is central to his tactical philosophy, though it does make United's transition play critical; defenders with pace are necessary to cover wide spaces.
Ideal back three
In terms of personnel, an ideal Amorim-inspired back three for United would feature Lisandro Martinez, Matthijs de Ligt and Leny Yoro.
Martinez’s technical ability and athleticism make him a perfect fit on the left side, where his direct passing and composure can initiate play from the back.
De Ligt, positioned centrally, could provide stability, with his defensive partners helping to cover his weaknesses.
On the right, Yoro - an exciting prospect acquired from Lille for £52million - could offer a blend of agility and defensive strength, embodying the potential many United fans have anticipated since his arrival.
Yoro’s signing, which reportedly thwarted Real Madrid’s interest, shows the club's faith in his potential to secure the defence for years to come.
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Wing-backs pivotal
Wing-backs in this set-up are pivotal, transforming the three-at-the-back system into a fluid and flexible shape.
Unlike a traditional back five, Amorim’s wing-backs are more aligned with the midfield, stretching the field wide to accommodate two advanced midfielders.
This positioning allows Diogo Dalot to shine as a left wing-back, supporting attacks from the flank.
On the right, Noussair Mazraoui appears to be an ideal fit. His recent performance against Chelsea showcased his skill down the right, completing a league-high five take-ons for a defender, achieving 92% pass accuracy, making six tackles and contributing two interceptions and two clearances.
His technical ability and energy on the right could make him a crucial asset in Amorim’s system.
Overall, Amorim’s three-at-the-back formation - with quick, mobile defenders and high, versatile wing-backs - could allow United to maximise both defensive solidity and offensive width.
This set-up would give United the flexibility to control games both in possession and on the counter, allowing for a balanced approach to modern, attack-minded football.
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