Manchester United have completely flipped the narrative on set-pieces under the tenure of Ruben Amorim.
It has been exactly one year since Ruben Amorim joined Manchester United, and the Portuguese head coach has learned and adapted a lot in that time.
Amorim was shocked by the Premier League and the physicality of the division after taking charge at Old Trafford, and improving the athleticism of his squad has been a top priority in his first year.
mail iconJoin our newsletter for news & smart analysis.
In the first few months, Amorim’s United struggled with corners, conceding two in one game against Arsenal and conceding directly from a corner kick against both Tottenham and Wolves.
However, Matthijs de Ligt scored a dramatic equaliser from a corner in the latest 2-2 draw with Tottenham, and now United are leading the way in the Premier League in terms of corners.
Matthijs de Ligt celebrates goal
Photo by BEN STANSALL/AFP via Getty Images
Man United are Premier League’s best team at corners
Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal have grown a reputation in recent seasons for maximising the usage of set-pieces. United know that better than most, having conceded several goals from Arsenal’s corner tactics.
Last season’s defeat to Arsenal was clearly a lesson to Amorim, as he applied more focus on improving United’s set pieces.
More United News
How would you rate Manchester United’s season after 11 Premier League games?
As per The Athletic, United now lead the way in the Premier League in terms of goals from corners, ranking even higher than second-placed Arsenal.
In 2025/26, United are scoring an average of 14.3 goals per 100 corners. Arsenal sit second with an average of just over 10 goals per 100 corners.
Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 formation allows for three towering centre-backs to attack the box – often De Ligt, Harry Maguire and Leny Yoro – while the added height of 6ft 5in Benjamin Sesko adds to United’s aerial threat.
Carlos Fernandes deserves credit for improving set-pieces
Amorim brought his own backroom staff from Sporting Lisbon to support him at Old Trafford, including assistant Carlos Fernandes.
A bold decision was made last season to strip Andreas Georgson of set-piece duties and entrust Fernandes with the responsibility.
Amorim defended Fernandes in the media when United were being heavily criticised for their set-piece record.
READ MORE: Ruben Amorim has completely changed Man United’s style of play by leaving Sir Alex Ferguson tactic
Arsenal set-piece coach Nicolas Jover has received rave reviews for his impact at Arsenal, but it seems Fernandes is doing an equally brilliant job with United.
In an era of football where long throws and set pieces are becoming more prevalent, Amorim and his staff are making sure United’s squad is well-equipped to thrive.