Man Utd will face Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on 30/11. Both teams utilize a 3-4-2-1 formation, yet coach Amorim's side has not mirrored the success of the FA Cup and Community Shield winners. Analysts point to Crystal Palace's advantage with attacking wing-backs Daniel Munoz and Tyrick Mitchell, whereas Man Utd primarily relies on Amad Diallo.
Asked about the team's performance, coach Amorim acknowledged: "We do not have a perfect squad and need time to improve. For instance, in our recent match, we would benefit from a right-footed Amad to operate on the opposite wing."
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Diallo scored a volley, Man Utd's second goal, in their 2-2 draw with Nottingham Forest on 1/11. *Reuters*
The Portuguese coach also conceded that Crystal Palace performs better with the 3-4-2-1 formation. Man Utd, conversely, plays less effectively because they operate differently.
"You cannot assert that all teams employing a 3-4-3 formation play identically. We choose different timings, defend in distinct spaces, and attack in varied ways".
Crystal Palace defender Daniel Munoz once harbored aspirations of playing for Man Utd, Barcelona, Real Madrid, or PSG. He awaits a suitable offer to depart Selhurst Park, suggesting a potential future move to Man Utd. Yet, the Colombian international will turn 30 next May, an age generally not ideal for joining a major club. During the last transfer window, Amorim prioritized players aged 22 to 26 for his long-term strategy.
"I am focused on my club", Munoz stated. "I have no information regarding whether these teams desire me or are interested in me. We will see as the winter transfer window approaches".
The 3-4-2-1 formation continues to be a point of debate surrounding coach Amorim. He achieved success with this system at Sporting, yet has secured only 21 wins in 55 matches with Man Utd. Pressure on Amorim had lessened after a recent five-match unbeaten streak in the Premier League. Nevertheless, public questioning resurfaced after a 0-1 defeat to Everton on 24/11. Man Utd played with a man advantage from the 13th minute but ultimately lost at home.
Amad Diallo joined Man Utd from Atalanta in 2021, accumulating 76 appearances, 15 goals, and 15 assists. The 21-year-old Ivorian typically operates on either wing or as an attacking midfielder.
By Thanh Quy (via Sky Sports)
