Paul Scholes expresses doubts about Manchester United’s decision to sign the £43 million player following their defeat to Ipswich Town.
Rúben Amorim wasted no time pointing out Manchester United’s defensive frailties following his managerial debut in a 1-1 draw against Ipswich Town at Portman Road. The match, which marked the start of his tenure, exposed glaring weaknesses on the left side of defense—a concern Amorim is keen to rectify. Reports suggest that he immediately pressed the club’s hierarchy to prioritize signing a new left-back to solidify the defense and strengthen the squad.
The left-back position has become a significant problem for Manchester United due to an ongoing injury crisis. Key players like Luke Shaw, Tyrell Malacia, and former loanee Sergio Reguilón have all been sidelined with serious fitness issues, leaving the team with a shortage of reliable options. Shaw, returning to action for the first time since February, managed only 34 minutes against Ipswich before being substituted. Meanwhile, Malacia, who has been out since May 2023, recently resumed training but is still far from match fitness. These setbacks have forced makeshift tactical adjustments, none of which have been particularly effective.
During the Ipswich match, Diogo Dalot was deployed as a left-wing-back in an emergency role, but the Portuguese defender struggled to adapt. Ipswich capitalized on Dalot’s discomfort, repeatedly targeting United’s vulnerable left flank. The defensive lapses underscored the need for reinforcements, and Amorim’s frustration was palpable. According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the manager has urged the club to prioritize the acquisition of a natural left-back, with January being viewed as a potential window to address this issue.
Despite Shaw’s return, Amorim remains cautious about overburdening the England international. Speaking before the Ipswich game, the Portuguese coach stressed the importance of a measured approach to Shaw’s recovery. “Luke is feeling positive, but we need to be careful with his fitness to ensure he can contribute over the long term rather than rush him back,” Amorim noted. While Shaw showed glimpses of his defensive prowess and quick transitions during his brief outing, his performance was marred by rustiness, including misplaced passes and lapses in concentration.
Manchester United’s packed schedule further intensifies the urgency to resolve their left-back dilemma. With a Europa League clash against Bodo/Glimt and a string of crucial Premier League matches on the horizon, Amorim recognizes that a solid defense is vital to maintaining competitiveness on multiple fronts. He is reportedly exploring both short-term solutions and long-term targets to bolster his options and provide the team with greater tactical flexibility.
Amorim’s proactive stance underscores his determination to turn Manchester United into a more balanced and resilient side. The vulnerabilities exposed during the Ipswich game highlight the scale of the task ahead as he seeks to elevate the team’s performances. With the January transfer window fast approaching, it is now up to the club’s leadership to back their new manager and deliver the reinforcements he urgently requires. The coming weeks will be pivotal in shaping Amorim’s vision and United’s prospects in a challenging season.
