Ruben Amorim: “When we lost, I don’t think we lost because of the system” What it Means for Manchester United
Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has once again defended his tactical system amid growing criticism, insisting that the blame for recent losses should not fall squarely on formation or strategy, but rather on execution. In his latest remarks, Amorim said:
“If I look at the games we lost, the most important thing when I watch the game is not that we lost because of the system.” Reuters+1
Here’s a deeper dive into what he meant, why this matters, and what comes next for United.
⚽ The Background
Amorim took over at Manchester United with high expectations — a new era, new tactics, and a vision to revamp the team’s identity. One of his core tools is the 3-4-2-1 formation. But as the season progresses, United has managed only a handful of wins in 33 Premier League games, and several defeats that have triggered debate over whether the system fits the players. Criticism has come from former players, pundits, and media outlets alike. Tribuna+3Talksport+3The Guardian+3
🔍 What Amorim Is Saying
- Tactical Blame vs. Execution
Amorim acknowledges that while many blame the system when results go wrong, he believes the system isn’t inherently at fault. Instead, he points to how players execute — consistency, decision-making, and perhaps mental resilience during crucial moments. He noted that sometimes the system works very well, and sometimes it doesn’t — which to him suggests the issue isn’t the structure itself. Reuters+3Reuters+3ESPN+3 - Examples of Poor Performances
He refers to recent games like the 3-1 loss to Brentford, where he says United lost not because of how they arranged themselves on paper, but because they “played the game how Brentford wanted,” conceded early, failed to control possession, and didn’t settle into their rhythm. Reuters+2Tribuna+2 - Criticism and Pressure
Amorim has openly stated that he expects criticism — it’s part of the job. He hasn’t shied away from responsibility: “You cannot run away from the results,” he said. But his point is that changing systems every time there is a negative result might do more harm than good if the underlying issue is not the tactical framework but consistency and player performance. ESPN+1
🧭 Why This Matters
- Squad Adaptation: Players need time to grow accustomed to a system. Constantly shifting formations undermines stability. Amorim’s defense suggests he believes more in building consistency rather than reacting to every poor result with tactical tweaks.
- Psychological Impact: When losses are always blamed on tactics, it can erode confidence. By shifting the blame toward execution, Amorim aims to hold players accountable, but also protect their belief in the system.
- Expectations vs. Reality: Manchester United is a club with high expectations. Fans and pundits expect immediate success. Amorim’s position is clear: success won’t come if there is inconsistency, regardless of the system.
🔮 What’s Next for United & Amorim
- Consistency in Performance: To win over doubters, United must deliver performances that match the system — good positional play, discipline in transitions, improved finishing, and fewer defensive lapses.
- Key Matches Ahead: Matches like Sunderland at Old Trafford will be crucial. Too many games have shown promise without results. They’ll need to “show” rather than just “say.” Reuters
- Squad and Tactical Tweaks: While Amorim defends his system, it’s possible small adjustments (personnel, roles, pressing structure) may be made to better adapt to opponent styles.
✅ Final Thoughts
Ruben Amorim’s stance is bold: he’s refusing to let his system become an easy scapegoat for a string of disappointing results. While the system may have its critics, Amorim seems confident that the way forward lies in better execution rather than wholesale tactical change.
For Manchester United supporters, this moment is a test: do they believe in a long-term vision, even when the results aren’t immediate? Amorim does — now the players will need to show.