Manchester United started their 2025 United States summer tour with a high note with a 2-1 victory over West Ham at Metlife Stadium. In addition to the victory, the game offered a first real look at the tactical vision of Ruben Amorim for the Red Devils, with key players such as Bruno Fernandes who have shown their continuous importance.
Amorim Win’s first declaration: Core taken
After traveling from Chicago to New Jersey, United faced West Ham with a renewed purpose. Under the summer skies of Metlife, where Chelsea He raised the club’s world cup trophy a few weeks earlier, Bruno Fernandes became the producer of differences again.
The Portuguese captain scored both goals for United. The open came from a fifth minute penalty after Ayden Heaven had been false by the goalkeeper of West Ham Areola. The second came from a compound milestone, brilliantly assisted by Kobbie Maineo. Although Jarrod Bowen pulled back one in the 60th minute, the defense of United has held still to seal the victory.
This marked a rare opportunity in which the United obtained a score more than once without relying on isolated moments of individual brilliance. It was also an essential moral thrust at the beginning of the Kingdom of Amorim.
It is interesting to note that Amorim has chosen to keep the initial formation intact up to the 65th minute, which is unusual for a friendly. This formation, including Bayindir, Yoro, De Ligt, Heaven, Dorgu, Ugarte, Maineo, Amad, Fernandes, Cunha and Hojlund, can report his favorite nucleus forward.
Despite the missing key figures such as Bryan Mbeumo and Mazraoues, the United movement, the pressure and energy levels have shown a clear improvement compared to the last days of the ten hag era.
Potential and risks in the current range
In the meantime, the defensive trio of Yoro, De Ligt and Heaven offered a mix of balance and potential. De Ligt anchored the line with confidence, while Yoro and Paradise covered the hips. However, their chemistry remains an ongoing job.
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Paradise, for example, showed rhythm but inexperience, in particular when Bowen passed it for the goal of the West Ham. Yoro has shown strong instincts but also needs refinement. Against elite attacks like Arsenal’s or led by Gyoker ChelseaThis backline will have to face more severe tests.
At the same time, Hojlund’s performance was a microcosm of his time at United, since his efforts and the effort are spoiled by an inconsistent finish. His first solo race, especially Max Kilman before hitting the pole, was electric. Yet a close -up shot at close range exposed his lack of calm.
With Zirkzee waiting behind the scenes and Cunha or Mbeumo potentially completing the attack, Amorim must evaluate if Hojlund deserves a continuous investment as the main striker.
Optimal tactics
On the other hand, Bruno Fernandes has shown once again that he is at his best when he played at the top. Positioned closer to the opposition box, Fernandes dictated the transitions, flowed fluidly to Cunha and finished both United’s objectives with precision. Unlike the most ausorial role that has been given to him in Europa League Final, this version of Fernandes was a creative and score engine. His understanding of space and the ability to press remains without rivals.
In addition, with Fernandes pushed forward, Kobbie Mainoo and Manuel Ugarte formed a promising midfield duo. Although not impeccable, Bowen’s goal highlighted an interval in which they controlled great parts of the game.
Mainoo’s printing and the rapid transition to set Fernandes’ second goal have been an extraordinary moment. Ugarte, often criticized last season, played with greater intensity and even delivered a brazen nutmeg that designed applause.
Such a combination, although still matured, offered a project of hope for the United midfield.
Final verdict: positive steps, but a long way to go
The 2-1 victory over the West Ham was more than a simple result of the Prevalson, as it gave Ruben Amorim precious information on the strengths and weaknesses of his team. His first tactical imprint is visible: a more mobile Manchester United, young and cohesive is starting to emerge.
However, to compete at the highest levels, United still needs reinforcements, in particular in defense and in advance. Above all, they need time. But for now, Amorim era has started with the promise, and this is more than enough for fans who dream of a red awakening.
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