By Dan Khan (Sky Sports News – Reporter Notebook)
Wednesday 17 December 2025
Ruben Amorim may not have delivered a victory against Bournemouth, but he achieved something almost as important: he reconnected Manchester United with their supporters.
Walking through Manchester, conversations with United fans tend to follow a familiar pattern frustration, concern, and impatience. After underwhelming performances against Everton and West Ham, one season-ticket holder summed it up simply: “Just go for it. Give us something to believe in.”
Against Bournemouth, United finally did.
Although the 4-4 draw extended an inconsistent run just two wins in seven league matches the mood inside Old Trafford was notably different. Fans left encouraged, not because of the result, but because of the intent, energy, and tactical flexibility on display.
A Shift in Attitude More Than Numbers
Statistics such as expected goals and shot volume showed United could have been out of sight by half-time, but data alone does not capture why the atmosphere shifted. What resonated was the aggression and willingness to take risks.
Amorim altered his setup, showing a flexibility he has often been accused of lacking. Players pressed higher, duels were contested with urgency, and United played on the front foot — something supporters have been craving.
Leny Yoro’s performance at right-back was symbolic of that change. Returning to the side, he looked rejuvenated, stepping into challenges assertively and supporting attacks. Alongside him, an unlikely central pairing of Ayden Heaven and Luke Shaw mirrored that proactive approach, while Mason Mount appeared closer to the player United believed they were signing from Chelsea in 2023.
This collective intent rather than flawless execution was the key difference. It was visible, tangible, and appreciated.
Defensive Concerns Still Linger
That said, the defensive frailties cannot be ignored. Bournemouth scored with alarming ease at times, highlighting problems that have plagued United in recent weeks.
Context, however, matters.
United were missing their standout defender this season, Matthijs de Ligt, along with Harry Maguire and Noussair Mazraoui, both potential starters. Lisandro Martinez, returning from a knee injury that sidelined him since February, looked understandably short of sharpness in his cameo.
Amorim has been clear in his post-match assessment: he does not believe wholesale defensive recruitment is necessary. Instead, he insists the squad has the right characteristics to improve collectively. Whether that optimism proves justified remains to be seen, but injuries have undeniably disrupted any chance of defensive continuity.
Goals Finally Flowing With a Catch
One area that has improved is scoring.
Last season, United were among the Premier League’s lowest scorers, prompting heavy investment in attacking reinforcements. The arrivals of Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha, and Benjamin Sesko were meant to transform that weakness into a strength.
Injuries have delayed that vision. The trio have started only three league games together due to setbacks for Cunha and Sesko. Even so, United now sit sixth in the table, just two points off the top four, and boast the second-highest goal tally in the division.
Given where United were a year ago, that progress should not be dismissed lightly.
The Timing Couldn’t Be Worse
Just as Amorim’s attack begins to click, fresh problems emerge.
Both Mbeumo and Amad Diallo are set to depart for the Africa Cup of Nations, leaving a glaring void on the right-hand side of United’s attack. Their pace, movement, and chemistry so effective against Bournemouth will be absent for at least a month.
It is difficult not to feel frustration for Amorim. His side finally delivered their most entertaining attacking performance at Old Trafford arguably since the Brighton match earlier in the season only to lose two of their most dangerous weapons immediately afterward.
Sesko’s return to the matchday squad offers some relief, and he could slot into Mbeumo’s role alongside Cunha. But replicating the balance and threat provided by Mbeumo and Amad is another matter entirely.
Searching for Solutions on the Right
There is no obvious replacement.
One possibility involves maintaining Yoro at right-back and pushing Diogo Dalot higher up the pitch, with Patrick Dorgu operating on the left side of defence. However, United have often looked predictable and blunt when Dalot has been used further forward.
Another option is a tactical reshuffle. Kobbie Mainoo, who impressed during a 30-minute cameo against Bournemouth, could see increased involvement. Amorim may push Bruno Fernandes into a more advanced role, allowing Mainoo to operate deeper or even on the right side of a narrow midfield diamond.
Mainoo has yet to start a Premier League match this season but could be thrust into action against Aston Villa, especially with Casemiro suspended. Losing the Brazilian deprives United of their primary midfield enforcer just as they face one of the league’s most in-form sides.
Youth Waiting in the Wings
Supporters will also be watching closely to see whether Amorim turns to the academy.
Talents such as Shea Lacey and Jack Fletcher are likely to feature on the bench during the congested festive period. The lingering question is whether Amorim trusts them enough to make a genuine impact off the bench or in starting roles.
So far, the answer has leaned towards caution.
A Delicate Balance Going Forward
Amorim has shown he can adapt, excite, and engage the Old Trafford crowd a crucial step in any successful United tenure. The Bournemouth performance proved his ideas can resonate when executed with conviction.
Now comes the harder test: sustaining momentum amid injuries, suspensions, and international absences.
The tactical flexibility is there. The attacking promise is clear. But depth, balance, and defensive resilience will determine whether this renewed optimism develops into genuine progress — or fades as yet another false dawn.
