Why Manchester United still struggle to control games - even with structure

Photo: Manchester United

Last year, Manchester United took a deep dive in the hope of a necessary reset by hiring Ruben Amorim, wanting a clear structure after years of instability and constant change.

More than a year on, United are still very far from where they would want to be.

While Amorim has given United more of an identifiable playstyle and structure, the team still struggles to control games.

United lack the conviction needed to see out games, often looking very fragile even when they are in front. There does not seem to be that defensive security that fans and Amorim can rely on. The proof is there, with United recording just one clean sheet all season so far, often conceding despite allowing very few opportunities on goal. This has led to a whopping goals conceded tally of 26 in the Premier League, with just five teams having a worse defensive record this season.

While there are many questions about Amorim's preferred back-three system, it seems that United's struggles are no longer about shape, but on something deeper.

Structure Without Authority

Like it or not, it is clear that Amorim's system has allowed the team to be more fluid in certain areas of the pitch.

However, that structure has come under increased pressure over recent weeks, with United's matches very often turning into end-to-end encounters, relying heavily on transitions.

This is far from the necessary control that Amorim is looking for.

Matches are currently being decided by who can finish off moves built by transitions the most. United are far from doing that, often playing into the opposition's hands rather than opting to slow it down and force teams to react against them.

In fact, United have often looked better when they have had to sit back and hit teams on the counter, such as against Crystal Palace and Liverpool, with their defensive shape being much tighter that way. It allows them to survive periods of pressure, but not dominate the match.

Too often, United settle into their structure and wait, rather than assert themselves.

A Midfield That Maintains, Not Commands

A year on, it seems that Amorim has settled with a midfield pairing of the experienced duo of Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes.

This midfield partnership has functioned relatively well, especially after some recent tactical adjustments that have seen the attacking midfielders be narrower to help support Casemiro when Fernandes goes off on a run up the pitch.

While it is functioning better, it still very rarely takes full charge of matches.

When United have more of the ball, possession is recycled safely, but without any real progression. Opposition teams can then reorganise themselves, step higher up the pitch, and then regain momentum.

In order to have true control, United need midfielders who:

• Demand the ball under pressure

• Break lines consistently

• Manipulate space rather than simply occupy it

When you think of those qualities, Kobbie Mainoo immediately comes to mind, especially when it comes to receiving the ball under pressure and seeking to manoeuvre in tight spaces. Yet, Amorim still favours the defensive solidity and ability to distribute the ball that Casemiro possesses, while Fernandes is an all-action, creative outlet that simply needs to play.

The Wing-Back Limitation

Amorim’s wing-backs provide balance and width, but they can also dilute control.

Often positioned too wide to influence central areas and too deep to truly pin defenders back, United’s wide play lacks consequence. Opponents remain comfortable, able to defend without collapsing centrally.

Control comes from forcing choices. United’s structure does not yet do that consistently.

The only one that is really capable of forcing defenders to make choices is Amad, who is relatively hit or miss at times. Given he is currently away for the Africa Cup of Nations, United will need to find an alternative, or else the wide areas are going to look very blunt when compared to previous weeks.

The Next Step for Amorim’s United

While this lack of control is a worry, it also represents United's next phase of the Amorim project.

United seem to have more of a structure nowadays, yet it is now all about having that command and control in matches. Whether that comes through some tactical alterations, just like Amorim did against Bournemouth with a switch-up in formation, or through some new midfield signings, remains a mystery.

For now, United have a platform to build on. Whether this becomes a springboard or a ceiling heavily relies on if Amorim can turn structure into control.