Amorim points to 'fantastic' Man Utd winger as he tells of new defensive style

Ruben Amorim admits that Manchester United must sometimes take an unpopular approach to secure results but reassured fans that their playing style would evolve after their 1-1 draw with Arsenal.

United adopted a defensive strategy at Old Trafford, managing just one shot on target in the first half—a controversial Bruno Fernandes free-kick that gave them the lead. While Amorim’s side grew into the game after halftime and tested Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya, they ultimately couldn’t hold on for the win.

"When you manage Manchester United, you can't always play like that, but the priority is to win, not just to entertain the fans," Amorim told Sky Sports.

"I understand the frustration, but when we score, gain control, and create chances, the mood shifts, and the fans are happy. We have to deal with that reality.

"Sometimes, we have to make difficult choices, even if they’re not popular, because ultimately, we need points. We don’t want to be so defensive and concede possession, but given the circumstances, the squad, and the challenges we face, we had to adapt. Today, we showed we can still compete and win in this way.

"In a deep defensive setup, we can control the game better and capitalize on transitions. I thought Alejandro Garnacho was outstanding today. He was disappointed on Thursday but delivered a fantastic performance this time."

Before kickoff, thousands of United fans protested against the club’s ownership, with co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and director Edward Glazer in attendance. The 1958 fan group led the demonstration, urging supporters to wear black to symbolize what they see as the club's decline under its current structure.

Throughout the match, the Glazer family were the target of repeated chants of discontent. Amorim supported the fans' right to voice their concerns.

"This club will never die—that’s certain. You can feel the passion in the streets, not just in the stadium," he said.

"But football is a big business, and fans everywhere feel the strain of ticket prices and accessibility. It’s a tough situation.

"Our job is to show effort and commitment. I understand that playing defensively frustrates fans, but this is temporary. In the future, we will play differently. Right now, we are just trying to win games."

Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville echoed the fans' frustration, describing the situation as a result of long-term mismanagement.

"They’re angry, and rightfully so," Neville said. "It’s about debt repayment, poor leadership, and the fact that if you're cutting 450 jobs, it means someone has been mismanaging the club for a decade.

"Then there’s the financial impact of bad performances—no Champions League football, a loss of £30-40 million annually, and disastrous recruitment decisions that force constant squad rebuilds without generating real assets.

"It’s all coming to a head. You can’t fool football fans. They see what’s happening."