Amorim plans for shock new strategy against Man City with Rashford benched

Ruben Amorim is set to unleash a new-look lineup with a focus on control as Marcus Rashford faces the axe for the Manchester derby.

The Manchester United boss is preparing to ditch his reliance on pace and counter-attacking football, instead opting for a more controlled approach against their bitter rivals.

GiveMeSport and the Manchester Evening News sources both suggest that a front five of Amad Diallo, Mason Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Rasmus Hojlund will be unleashed at the Etihad.

This means a surprise benching for Rashford, who has struggled for consistency this season. "Sources have suggested to GiveMeSport that Mason Mount continues to impress the boss," the report stated.

"It is also considered likely that Amad Diallo will return to the right flank (right wing-back), mainly for balance."

The report continued: "Rasmus Hojlund has five goals in his last four games and will expect a start. It could be that Marcus Rashford's position in the starting line-up is under some threat, as his future in the team continues to look unclear."

Mount, who has impressed Amorim with his work rate and tactical awareness, is expected to partner Fernandes in attacking midfield roles, providing a more creative and controlled approach.

"Mount made a positive impact against Plzen and was unlucky not to score," the MEN report added.

"He offered far more in 29 minutes than what both Rashford and Zirkzee did in 56 and 61 minutes respectively, meaning he would be worthy of just a fourth Premier League start of the season."

Amorim is clearly looking to experiment with different formations and personnel as he seeks to find the winning formula. This bold team selection could prove to be a masterstroke or a costly gamble.

Meanwhile, Sky Germany has confirmed the club's interest in Atalanta midfielder Ederson Silva, with a potential Eriksen sale expected to fund the move.

Spanish reports claim United have launched an "impossible to reject" bid for Girona left-back Miguel Gutierrez.

An unusual Manchester derby is expected on Sunday, marking the worst-ever start to a season for Manchester United in the Premier League era. And the worst start for Manchester City since 2010.

United have their least points total after 15 matches of the Premier League era. On the other hand, City's total is the lowest seen since the 2010-11 season.

Going into the weekend, United is situated 13th and City fourth in the Premier League rankings.

United have lost five of their past six Premier League matches against City - as they conceded 18 goals in these five defeats. The only deviation in this trend was a 2-1 win at Old Trafford on 14th January 2023.

Amorim's 3-4-2-1 structure with two players located just behind a striker might be the game-changer.

This strategy could prove advantageous, as City's 4-1-4-1 setup isolates the number six in the equivalent zone.

Amad Diallo, noted for his impressive dribbling skills, has been responsible for five of United's six league goals under Amorim's guidance.