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Ruben Amorim criticized for controversial tactics in United’s loss to Crystal Palace

4. February 2025
Ruben Amorim (foto: Getty Images)
Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has been criticized for deploying Kobbie Mainoo as a false nine in United’s 0-2 defeat to Crystal Palace on Sunday.

The tactical change surprised many, as United lined up without a recognized striker. Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee were both benched, while Mainoo led an attacking trio alongside Amad Diallo and Alejandro Garnacho.

Mainoo had impressed in the Europa League as a No. 10 against FCSB, scoring and assisting Diogo Dalot, but the decision to push him further forward backfired. Despite a promising start, with Mainoo hitting the post and setting up a chance for Garnacho, United’s attacking momentum faded. They managed just two shots on target throughout the match.

Speaking on ESPN’s Gabs and Jules Show, Julien Laurens questioned Amorim’s logic in switching formations without adequate preparation.

“They played in the Europa League on Thursday, they would have come back in the night between Thursday and Friday. Friday you don’t train. Saturday you don’t train because you’re the day before the game, so they would have played in this formation now, with Kobbie Mainoo as a number nine without having worked on it at all, against a team that was in decent form, too. Why would you do this?!”

Laurens didn’t hold back, further criticizing Amorim’s decision-making.

"There’s no justification for what you did. This is ridiculous. You’re shooting yourself in the foot. I have had enough of it already, man.

"You’ve been there two minutes and you do silly things like this. This was stupid from Amorim. This was really silly. It made no sense whatsoever and he got punished for it and he deserved it."

Amorim finds himself under mounting pressure, as he tries to maintain his 3-4-3 formation despite growing scrutiny. United’s poor performances continue to raise concerns, and with every defeat, questions over his suitability for the job intensify.

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