Former Manchester United manager David Moyes got the better of Ruben Amorim with Everton winning 1-0 at Old Trafford.
Ruben Amorim’s one-year anniversary of his first match as Manchester United head coach could not have gone much worse.
Everton went down to 10 men after Idrissa Gueye’s bizarre red card for fighting his own teammate, but the Red Devils were still unable to break down their well-organised defence.
Naturally, questions are being asked of Amorim and his tactical setup. Even with a man advantage, United continued to line up with a rigid back three.
What is your message to Ruben Amorim after Manchester United’s defeat to Everton?
Ruben Amorim gestures
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Even Matthijs de Ligt criticised United’s game plan after the full-time whistle, and Amorim has accepted blame for parts of the performance.
Ruben Amorim passionately shouting in Manchester United jacket
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Ruben Amorim’s substitutes criticised by Gary Neville
Throughout his first year in charge, United fans have grown to learn that Amorim will not change from his 3-4-2-1 shape. There have been adaptations to the style of play, but not to the formation.
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During his commentary on Monday night, Neville slammed Luke Shaw for his positioning, with the United legend wanting the 30-year-old to push further forward.
Gary Neville’s instant reaction to Man Utd defeat vs Everton
“For Manchester United, it’s an understatement to say that was a bad one.”
Gary Neville
Amorim did turn to his bench to try and inspire more creativity, but Neville wasn’t impressed by the changes made.
Via Sky Sports, Neville said: “The subs have taken Amorim down a cul-de-sac. There’s no agility or flexibility firstly from the coach, but also the players.”
In contrast, Neville said: “Moyes has managed his substitutes really well.”
Ruben Amorim’s options were limited vs Everton
In Amorim’s defence, his bench against Everton was not equipped with rich, attacking options.
Benjamin Sesko’s knee injury and Matheus Cunha’s knock in training meant both were absent from the Old Trafford clash.
Academy star Shea Lacey was named on the bench as he inches closer to his debut, but breaking down a deep Everton defence would have been a tough ask for the teenage star.
READ MORE: Man United just broke 46-game record vs Everton which adds to Ruben Amorim embarrassment
One regret Amorim may have is not including Chido Obi in the matchday squad. The youngster could have at least provided another attacking option when United were pushing for an equaliser.
Injuries are no excuse, though, and Amorim will be the first to admit he made mistakes against Everton.