🔴 (3-4-3) Cunha Debut, Martinez to Replace Onana – Predicted Man United Line-Up vs Leeds United as Ruben Amorim Sets to Start His Preseason with a New Striker

🔴 (3-4-3) Cunha Debut, Martinez to Replace Onana – Predicted Man United Line-Up vs Leeds United as Ruben Amorim Sets to Start His Preseason with a New Striker

 

 

Manchester United are set to kick off their 2025 preseason with a high-profile friendly against Leeds United, marking the beginning of a new era under manager Ruben Amorim. The Portuguese coach is expected to implement his preferred 3-4-3 formation, introducing new signings and reshuffling the squad to align with his tactical vision.

 

 

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🔄 Tactical Shift: Amorim’s 3-4-3 Formation

 

Ruben Amorim’s tactical philosophy centers around a flexible 3-4-3 formation, emphasizing fluid attacking play and a solid defensive structure. This system allows for dynamic transitions and positional rotations, aiming to dominate possession and create overloads in key areas of the pitch. While the 3-4-3 has faced scrutiny in the Premier League, Amorim’s success with Sporting CP showcases its potential when executed effectively.

 

 

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🧤 Goalkeeper: Martinez to Replace Onana

 

In a surprising development, Lisandro Martínez is poised to start in goal, replacing André Onana. Martínez, traditionally a central defender, has been training as a goalkeeper during the preseason, and Amorim is keen to experiment with this unconventional setup. This move is part of a broader strategy to explore innovative tactics and player versatility.

 

 

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🛡️ Back Three: De Ligt, Martínez, Yoro

 

The central defensive trio is expected to comprise Matthijs de Ligt, Lisandro Martínez, and Leny Yoro. De Ligt brings experience and aerial dominance, while Martínez offers technical ability and composure on the ball. Yoro, a promising young talent, adds pace and agility to the defense. This combination aims to provide a balanced and resilient defensive unit capable of building from the back.

 

 

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🚀 Wing-Backs: Dalot and Shaw

 

Diogo Dalot and Luke Shaw are anticipated to occupy the right and left wing-back positions, respectively. Both players possess the stamina and attacking prowess required to thrive in this role, providing width and support to the forwards. Their ability to track back defensively will be crucial in maintaining the team’s shape during transitions.

 

 

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⚙️ Midfield: Casemiro, Fernandes, Mount

 

The midfield trio is likely to feature Casemiro as the holding midfielder, with Bruno Fernandes and Mason Mount operating in more advanced roles. Casemiro’s experience and defensive solidity will anchor the midfield, while Fernandes and Mount will be tasked with linking play and creating attacking opportunities.

 

 

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🔥 Front Three: Cunha, Garnacho, Fernandes

 

In the attacking third, new signing Matheus Cunha is set to make his debut, flanked by Alejandro Garnacho and Bruno Fernandes. Cunha’s versatility and goal-scoring ability will be pivotal in Amorim’s system, while Garnacho’s pace and flair offer a direct threat on the wing. Fernandes, operating in a more advanced role, will look to exploit spaces and provide key passes.

 

 

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🧠 Amorim’s Vision and Squad Dynamics

 

Ruben Amorim’s appointment at Manchester United signifies a shift towards a more dynamic and possession-oriented style of play. The implementation of the 3-4-3 formation reflects his commitment to fluid attacking movements and positional flexibility. While the system has faced criticism for its suitability in the Premier League, Amorim’s track record in Portugal suggests that with the right personnel and tactical discipline, it can yield positive results.

 

The preseason match against Leeds United will serve as an important test for Amorim’s tactical setup and the integration of new signings. It will provide valuable insights into how the team adapts to the 3-4-3 formation and how individual players perform in their designated roles.

 

 

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🔮 Looking Ahead: Key Objectives for the Preseason

 

Integration of New Signings: Ensuring that Matheus Cunha, Mason Mount, and other recent acquisitions acclimate quickly to the team’s playing style and tactical requirements.

 

Tactical Familiarity: Achieving a cohesive understanding of the 3-4-3 formation among all players, focusing on positional discipline and fluid transitions.

 

Building Team Chemistry: Fostering strong relationships and communication channels both on and off the pitch to enhance collective performance.

 

Evaluating Squad Depth: Assessing the readiness of fringe players and academy prospects to step into the first team when required.

 

 

 

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🏁 Conclusion

 

As Manchester United embark on their preseason journey under Ruben Amorim, the friendly against Leeds United represents more than just a preparatory match—it is a statement of intent. The adoption of the 3-4-3 formation and the inclusion of new signings like Matheus Cunha signal a commitment to an attacking and modern style of football. While challenges lie ahead, the preseason offers an opportunity to buil

d the foundation for a successful campaign.

 

 

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