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Key Points

Danny Murphy believes Manchester United's issues are about player roles, not the system itself. He points to Bruno Fernandes being played out of position as a key problem. United's poor form continues with just one league win this season. Despite the criticism, Amorim insists he won't change his footballing philosophy.

Key Points: Danny Murphy Says Amorim Cannot Put Round Pegs in Square Holes

  • Murphy blames individuals not Amorim's system for Man Utd's struggles
  • Says Bruno Fernandes is misused as a defensive number eight
  • Highlights poor player understanding of tactical roles
  • Notes Crystal Palace successfully uses the same system
2 min read

'Amorim cannot put round pegs in square holes': Danny Murphy

Former England midfielder Danny Murphy explains why Manchester United's problems stem from player roles, not Ruben Amorim's system, after their 3-0 loss to Man City.

"Amorim cannot put round pegs in square holes. You have got to have players who understand their role. - Danny Murphy"

New Delhi, Sep 15

Former England midfielder Danny Murphy believes the problem with Manchester United does not lay in the system that is being implemented by head coach Ruben Amorim rather the individuals he has in the team.

The Red Devils were second best at the Etihad Stadium as Phil Foden’s first-half header and Erling Haaland’s second-half double gave Pep Guardiola’s side the victory at Etihad Stadium on Sunday.

"I'm not a fan of the shape, but after the first four games I think it has improved - they look like they know what they are doing more. Their bigger problem has been the individuals he has been playing in that system. Bruno Fernandes has been one of the best number 10s in Europe, Amorim wants him to play as an 8 and do defensive work, which he does not do well.

"Amorim cannot put round pegs in square holes. You have got to have players who understand their role. If you are a holding midfielder in that role you have got to be able to track runners and spot dangers.

"The manager has to take responsibility, but in terms of just blaming the system? No. Palace play it well,” said Murphy on BBC Match of the Day.

After having finished 15th in the 2024-25 Premier League season, United have once again gotten off to a stuttering start in the new campaign. After having already been eliminated from the second round of the Carabao Cup by Grimsby Town, the Red Devils have only won one of their four league games this season .

Despite the 0-3 defeat, Amorim remained adamant that he will not change his footballing philosophy.

"I understand and accept it is not a record you should have at Manchester United. There are a lot of things, you have no idea what happened during these months but I am not going to change. When I want to change my philosophy, I will change. If not, you have to change the man,” said Amorim in the post-game interview.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

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Priya S
Watching from Mumbai at 1:30 AM and this is painful. Amorim needs to adapt to the players he has, not force his system. Indian coaches understand this better - you work with what you have!
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Aryan P
Respect to Amorim for sticking to his philosophy, but sometimes you need to be practical. United's midfield is getting overrun every game. Maybe time to adjust rather than be stubborn?
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Sarah B
As someone who's followed Premier League for years from Delhi, this reminds me of when LVG tried to force his system. Some managers learn to adapt, others get sacked. Hope Amorim learns quickly!
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Vikram M
The problem isn't just the system - look at our recruitment! Spending billions on players who don't fit any system. We need a proper football structure like City has. Glazers out! 🔴
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Michael C
Watching from Bangalore - the players need to take responsibility too. Professional footballers should be able to adapt to different roles. But yes, playing Bruno deep is wasting his talents.

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