Ruben Amorim: Focus on collective improvement, not signings, to solve Man United’s scoring issues
Ruben Amorim has expressed concerns about Manchester United‘s lack of goal-scoring ability but has challenged those currently at Old Trafford to improve the situation instead of relying on new acquisitions.
Although rumours have linked the club with a transfer for striker Viktor Gyökeres—who thrived under Amorim’s management at Sporting CP—the 39-year-old manager underscores that financial investment in new talent is not the answer to United’s existing dilemma.
Amorim inherited a team that had scored 12 goals in their first 11 league matches of the season. Following his debut match in charge, they have marginally improved that total to 13 goals. However, this is still concerning, as only three clubs in the Premier League have scored fewer goals. Two of those clubs—Crystal Palace (10 goals) and Southampton (9 goals)—are currently in the bottom two positions on the league table.
United’s finishing problems go beyond simple bad luck. They have scored 13 goals from an xG of 18.3, netting around five goals fewer than the quality of their chances suggests. No team is underperforming compared to their xG more than the Red Devils (-5.3).
While expected goals (xG) is not the definitive measure of a team’s performance, it highlights some concerning trends. The root issue appears to be a lack of composure in the final third and precision during crucial moments, which Amorim has acknowledged.
“Of course, there is a concern in that [the lack of goals] but I think we have to improve as a team,” he told reporters.
“We have quality players that can score so many goals, You can feel in the second half [against Ipswich] we controlled possession of the ball but were not dangerous. We will try to improve as a team. Rasmus [Hojlund] and Rash [Marcus Rashford] and even Bruno [Fernandes] have to score more goals.
“All these guys need to improve, We can score so many goals. If I need new strikers to score, we can improve as a team.”
Marcus Rashford scored with his only shot and his only touch inside the opposition box against Ipswich.
He's nothing but efficient. 😀 #IPSMUN pic.twitter.com/LQ7VgWDqce
— Squawka Live (@Squawka_Live) November 24, 2024
In discussing Marcus Rashford’s recent performance, Amorim expressed his dedication to helping the England international regain his scoring touch from the 2022/23 season, during which he scored 30 goals. He acknowledged that Rashford’s current position might not be optimal, especially in high-pressure situations, and promised to find the right tactical approach.
“We have to find the best solution for him,” Amorim said. “He has to be Marcus to return to that moment. He has to be the first one to want it. Then you will have the help of all the staff and fans because he is a Manchester United boy.”
Rashford, who scored United’s first goal under Amorim, has been involved in five goals over his last seven Premier League games against Everton, who visits Old Trafford this weekend, contributing two goals and three assists. He has scored in his last two encounters with them. Rashford is just two goals away from becoming the sixth player to reach 50 goals in the Premier League at Old Trafford while playing for the Red Devils.
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Amorim’s comments followed Manchester United’s 1-1 draw with Ipswich Town. He pointed out that while the team controlled possession in the second half, they lacked an attacking threat. He attributed this partly to focusing on build-up play during the week, suggesting that other aspects of their game were negatively affected.
The new United boss stressed the importance of collective improvement, noting that enhancing the team’s overall performance would naturally lead to more goals. His comments reflect a preference for developing existing talent rather than seeking immediate reinforcements through transfers. This approach aligns with Amorim’s broader philosophy of maximising the potential of his current squad.
