Why Man United’s misfiring attackers are major problem for Amorim

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8 league goals from trio 

©TM/IMAGO

Manchester United’s current problems appear endless and it would require a substantial novel to examine all their troubles – on and off the pitch. Despite extending his contract in the summer, Old Trafford chiefs opted to replace Erik ten Hag with Rúben Amorim in November but that expensive decision hasn’t resulted in immediate improvements. 

In fact, Man Utd’s plight has deteriorated since Amorim’s arrival with the English giants languishing in 15th in the Premier League, closer to the relegation zone than the European places. United were just four points off the Champions League places when Amorim took charge of his first game against Ipswich but they rank 17th for form since matchday 12, with just 15 points collected from a possible 45. United host Ipswich on Wednesday night and the spotlight will be on their misfiring attackers with their inability to score goals central to their struggles under Amorim.

There’s a plethora of attacking statistics that make for grim reading for United fans but Amorim has failed to ignite his forward players. The 40-year-old’s stubborn determination to persevere with his favoured 3-4-2-1 formation has drawn criticism as it’s clearly not working and United lack the personnel to make that system effective. As the graphic below illustrates, United have only scored 18 goals in 15 league games under Amorim, which is the 16th lowest return in the Premier League.

Moreover, United are miles behind the best teams in the country with rivals Liverpool scoring 25 more goals across this time period. Their attack isn’t functioning cohesively and they also lack options for the three attacking positions in Amorim shape. After Amad’s season-ending injury, Amorim only has three forwards at his disposal in Joshua Zirkzee, Rasmus Højlund and Alejandro Garnacho. The lack of attacking options available has only been compounded by Marcus Rashford and Antony, especially, hitting form since being allowed to leave in January.

Of huge concern to Amorim is the performance levels and attacking output from his three senior forwards. Garnacho, Hojlund and Zirkzee – with a combined market value of €152 million – have scored just eight league goals between them this season. In stark contrast, Liverpool’s best three performing forwards have scored 43 goals in the league this season. Moreover, none of the trio have netted in the Premier League since December, with all three players ranking in the top 20 for longest goal droughts.

United have missed 43 of 46 big chances created in the league, which is comfortably the worst record of any club, and all three forwards are playing for their futures. Realistically, United’s league campaign is effectively over as they will be consigned to their worst ever league finish but their prospects in the Europa League and FA Cup will hinge on their ability to score goals.