Ruben Amorim Faces Wing-Back Dilemma as Key Players Depart

Ruben Amorim is confronting a challenging scenario at Manchester United, as he may soon lose several key wing-back options. With the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, which begins next month, players such as Amad Diallo, Bryan Mbeumo, and Noussair Mazraoui will be unavailable, severely limiting Amorim’s choices.

Currently, Diallo stands out as a strong candidate for the right wing-back position, a role Amorim recently described as perfect for him. However, the situation on the left side is less promising. United invested £25 million to secure Patrick Dorgu earlier this year, but his raw talent may not be enough for consistent starting appearances. Meanwhile, Diogo Dalot remains a more reliable, albeit less dynamic, option who excels on the right flank.

The club’s youth prospects, including Diego Leon, are also a concern. Leon is anticipated to go out on loan in January, likely aiming to replicate the success of Harry Amass, who is currently thriving at Sheffield Wednesday. Amorim and United are hopeful that either Amass or Leon could eventually provide a solution for the left wing-back role. Nevertheless, there are no certainties, prompting the club to explore options for wing-back reinforcements in the next transfer window.

As the squad stands, Amorim could soon find himself without four of his existing wing-backs. Diallo and others will depart for international duty, leaving only Dalot, Dorgu, and the less favoured Tyrell Malacia as senior options. Dorgu’s situation is precarious; he is on the verge of a suspension and would miss a match should he receive another booking. This could potentially leave Dalot as the only experienced player available for selection.

While there is speculation about involving younger players like Leon, Bendito Mantato, and Jaydan Kamason, Amorim may also consider repositioning Luke Shaw. The 30-year-old has revitalized his career this season playing as a centre-back, benefiting from reduced fixture demands. Amorim acknowledged Shaw’s flexibility, stating, “He can play left wing-back, but of course the load that a player does in that position is a little different if you are doing that on a daily basis.”

Despite Shaw’s fitness concerns, Amorim indicated that he could serve as a temporary solution in the left wing-back role. “He is more prepared to do that position… he is a smart player, and he is fit at the moment, so I think he is an option,” Amorim noted. While this may not be the ideal scenario for United, the team’s immediate future will depend on how they navigate these challenges.

As the January transfer window approaches, Manchester United must work quickly to address their wing-back dilemma. With the added pressure of international absences, Amorim’s tactical decisions will be crucial in maintaining the team’s competitive edge during this critical period.