Manchester United, currently languishing 14th on the league table, has appointed Ruben Amorim as their new manager. He will assume his duties effective from November 11, 2024. Amorim, who has enjoyed considerable success with Sporting Lisbon, has signed a contract until June 2027, with an option for an additional year included. Known for his tactical acumen and youth development, the new manager is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the club as they aim to regain their former glory.
Ruben Amorim is expected to make some strategic signings in the January transfer window to strengthen key areas of the squad. This could include bringing in players he has previously worked with or identifying new talent that fits his tactical philosophy.
we explore three players Amorim is likely to target in the upcoming window.
Goncalo Inacio
Goncalo Inacio, the talented young center-back from Sporting Lisbon, is being heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford. The Portuguese, known for his strong defensive skills and versatility, could be the ideal replacement for Harry Maguire. Lisbon outfit has set a release clause of €60 million for the 23-year-old defender, and it will be interesting to see if the Red Devils decide to trigger it in the upcoming transfer window.
Key strengths of Goncalo Inacio
The talented center-back, Goncalo Inacio, possesses several strengths that could be instrumental in propelling United up the points table if his transfer materializes.
Passing Ability: Inacio excels in his passing range and accuracy, ranking in the top percentile for passes attempted per 90 minutes and progressive passes per 90 minutes. His ability to switch play and break lines with his passes is highly valued.
Ball-Carrying: He is adept at carrying the ball out of defense, ranking highly for progressive carries per 90 minutes. This ability allows him to break opposition presses and transition play quickly.
Aerial Threat: Inacio is a strong presence in aerial duels, contributing both defensively and offensively. He has scored several goals from set-pieces and crosses.
Defensive Skills: Known for his solid defensive capabilities, the Portuguese rarely makes errors and is reliable in one-on-one situations.
Versatility: While primarily a center-back, Inacio can also play as a defensive midfielder or left-back, adding to his value as a versatile defender.
Marcus Edwards
Marcus Edwards, the talented former Tottenham winger, is being linked with a move to Manchester as part of a potential transfer strategy of Ruben Amorim. Edwards, who has been impressive with Sporting Lisbon since his move from England, is seen as a valuable addition to Manchester United squad. His pace, dribbling skills, and ability to create scoring opportunities make him an exciting prospect for the Red Devils. With his current contract running until 2026, United may need to negotiate a transfer fee to secure his signature. The Englishman could provide the attacking flair and creativity that United has been lacking this season.
What makes him a standout player
The Englishman brings a unique set of strengths that could greatly benefit Manchester outfit, if he decides to return to England.
Dribbling Skills: Edwards is known for his exceptional dribbling ability, often compared to Lionel Messi due to his low center of gravity and quick feet. He excels at beating defenders one-on-one and creating space for himself and his teammates.
Creativity: As an attacking midfielder or winger, he has a knack for finding pockets of space and exploiting them with his excellent passing and playmaking skills. His vision and ability to create scoring opportunities are key assets.
Pace: Edwards’ speed is a significant advantage, allowing him to break away from defenders and make penetrating runs into the opposition’s defense. His quick bursts of acceleration can catch defenders off guard.
Ball Control: His close control and balance make him difficult to dispossess, allowing him to maintain possession under pressure and navigate tight spaces effectively.
Attacking Threat: The former Tottenham man is a goal threat from both open play and set-pieces. His ability to score and assist makes him a dual threat in the final third.
These strengths make him an exciting prospect for any team looking to add creativity and flair to their attack.
Pedro Goncalves
Pedro Goncalves, the talented Portuguese winger is being eyed by Manchester club as part of their new manager’s potential transfer strategy. Known for his goal-scoring prowess and versatility, Goncalves has been a standout player for Sporting, contributing significantly to their success. With a release clause of €80 million, securing his services might be a challenge, but his addition could provide the attacking edge United needs
Key strengths of “Pote”
Pedro Goncalves, often referred to as “Pote,” has several strengths that make him a standout player and top prospect for a move to Manchester United.
Intelligence and Vision: Pote is known for his exceptional vision and ability to read the game, which allows him to make key passes and create scoring opportunities.
Attacking Movement: His intelligent movement off the ball helps him find spaces in the opposition’s defense, making him a constant threat.
Goal-Scoring Ability: The talented midfielder has a knack for finding the back of the net, as evidenced by his impressive goal tally for Sporting CP.
Versatility: He can play in multiple positions, including attacking midfield, central midfield, and even as a forward, adding flexibility to his team’s tactics.
Technical Skills: Pote possesses excellent dribbling skills, balance, and first touch, allowing him to maintain possession and navigate tight spaces effectively.
These strengths make him a valuable asset for any team.
By securing the services of these key players, Ruben Amorim aims to restore Manchester United to their former glory and compete at the highest level once again. These strategic signings could provide the necessary boost to enhance both defensive and attacking capabilities, propelling the Red Devils back into contention for major trophies and re-establishing their dominance in English and European football.
