His tactics are so clear unlike Erik Ten Hag when we played his current team. He’s going to be really dangerous in the Premier League” – Pep Guardiola has offered insight into what Manchester United can anticipate from Ruben Amorim’s tactical approach. Guardiola emphasized that Amorim’s strategy is likely to bring a fresh, dynamic style to Old Trafford, characterized by disciplined pressing, fluid passing, and versatile positioning.
Pep Guardiola had studied Ruben Amorim’s tactical approach with Sporting CP, but overcoming the future Manchester United manager’s strategy proved a formidable task.
Ahead of Tuesday’s stunning 4-1 defeat of the 2023 Champions League winners, Guardiola acknowledged Amorim’s tactical prowess, which has brought success in Lisbon and is expected to shape Manchester United’s play style as he steps in to succeed Erik ten Hag.
Guardiola commended Amorim’s achievements at Sporting CP, particularly his skill in defining a strong team identity and nurturing promising players into Europe’s elite talents.
Under Amorim, Sporting’s tactical setup—swift passing sequences to connect with forward Viktor Gyokeres, rapid ball transitions to stretch opponents, and consistent overloading strategies—exemplifies the innovation that Guardiola had noted.
Despite Guardiola’s preparations, he may not have fully anticipated the tactical sharpness Sporting displayed. In what turned out to be an emotional send-off for Amorim at Estadio Jose Alvalade, Sporting dismantled City with impressive precision, underscoring Amorim’s growing reputation.
“Their style is evident,” Guardiola remarked. “Sporting’s disciplined possession from the back, Gyokeres’ threat in the open spaces, their speed, control, and seamless play on the wings are remarkable. They’re showing the same intensity and mentality as they did two years ago, even with new players. Winning the Portuguese league after two decades speaks volumes about Amorim’s influence.”
After a defensive error allowed Phil Foden to score, Sporting responded swiftly, creating several chances of their own. Even though Gyokeres missed an early opportunity to chip past Ederson, he soon found a way through City’s defense to score, exemplifying Sporting’s fast-paced counter-attacks that capitalize on opponents’ weaknesses—a core element of Amorim’s strategy.
Gyokeres completed a hat-trick with two second-half penalties, leaving Manchester United fans excited about Amorim’s potential impact at Old Trafford. Fans are already speculating about a possible transfer for Gyokeres, comparing his style and drive with United’s Rasmus Hojlund, as they look forward to a new era under Amorim’s guidance.
