Rio Ferdinand Criticizes Four Manchester United Players for Hindering Rúben Amorim’s Tactical Vision.
Following Manchester United’s narrow 3-2 victory over Ipswich Town on February 26, 2025, club icon Rio Ferdinand has raised concerns about the compatibility of certain players with manager Rúben Amorim’s tactical philosophy. While the win was crucial, Ferdinand believes that some squad members lack the physical attributes necessary to implement Amorim’s intense and dynamic playing style effectively.
Ferdinand noted that despite securing three points, Manchester United’s current squad does not possess the athleticism that defines Amorim’s teams. He emphasized that the style of play the Portuguese manager prefers requires mobility and dynamism, qualities that he feels are lacking in key areas. According to Ferdinand, this mismatch is hindering Amorim’s ability to fully execute his vision on the pitch.
When discussing specific players who might be struggling to adapt, Ferdinand pointed to four individuals. Joshua Zirkzee, despite his technical ability, has been criticized for his lack of pressing intensity and movement off the ball, crucial aspects of Amorim’s attacking philosophy. Rasmus Højlund, though highly rated for his potential, has displayed inconsistencies in meeting the tactical and physical demands of Amorim’s system. In defense, Matthijs de Ligt has faced questions over his agility and ability to function in a high-pressing setup, while Harry Maguire’s well-documented struggles with pace appear to make him an ill fit for the dynamic defensive approach Amorim aims to instill.
Reflecting on these limitations, Ferdinand stressed that Amorim needs players who not only understand his tactics but also possess the physical qualities to execute them at the required level. He suggested that unless the squad is reshaped to fit this philosophy, Manchester United will struggle to consistently perform at their best.
The match against Ipswich Town offered a glimpse into both the team’s strengths and ongoing vulnerabilities. United fell behind early due to a defensive error involving Patrick Dorgu and André Onana, but they responded with goals from Bruno Fernandes, Matthijs de Ligt, and a decisive header from Maguire. However, a red card for Dorgu forced United into a defensive battle, exposing the structural issues Ferdinand had pointed out.
With Amorim still in the process of shaping his squad, Ferdinand’s analysis suggests that a tactical overhaul may be necessary for Manchester United to thrive. Whether through player development or strategic recruitment, aligning the team’s physical and technical attributes with the manager’s vision will be crucial in determining the club’s success going forward.
