"Man Utd used the wrong tactics again," Neville commented after the match at Old Trafford on the evening of 30/12. "I have watched six or seven recent matches, enough to know what is right and what is not, and I am truly surprised by the tactical choice in this game."

The former player, who won two Champions League titles and eight Premier League titles with Man Utd, suggested that coach Amorim should have reverted to the 4-2-3-1 formation, as seen in the two previous matches, including the 1-0 victory over Newcastle. Otherwise, Man Utd might halt its progress. "I think that is also what the fans are thinking," Neville added. "Thanks to adjustments, the playing style has improved significantly in the two or three recent matches, but tonight, he returned to the 3-4-3 formation."

Amorim bows his head after Man Utd's 1-1 draw with Wolves on Premier League matchday 19 on the evening of 30/12. Photo: Man Utd

In this match, Man Utd took the lead with Joshua Zirkzee's opening goal in the 27th minute. This was a somewhat fortunate situation as the ball from the Dutch forward deflected off Ladislav Krejci, changing direction. However, before the first half ended, Krejci himself headed in the equalizer for Wolves.

This result occurred just three weeks after Man Utd's 4-1 victory at Wolves' home ground. At that time, coach Amorim also used the 3-4-3 formation, but had not yet lost Bruno Fernandes, Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo, or Noussair Mazraoui due to injuries and participation in the Africa Cup of Nations.

The 3-4-3 is Amorim's preferred formation since his time managing Sporting. However, its application at Man Utd has frequently sparked debate regarding its suitability, even being cited as a reason for the team finishing 15th in the 2024-2025 Premier League season. Recently, the "Red Devils" showed improvement, climbing into the top 6. On 26/12, Amorim received praise for switching to a 4-2-3-1 formation in the 1-0 win against Newcastle.

If Man Utd does not soon adopt a suitable strategy, it risks a decline. In January, Amorim's team faces three away Premier League matches against Leeds, Burnley, and Arsenal, in addition to hosting Man City. They will also host Brighton in the third round of the FA Cup on 11/1.

Thanh Quy (according to Sky Sports)