I have set the target for them and if any of them fails, He won’t be part of my plan next season”: Manchester United’s coach Ruben Amorim has set a nearly impossible target for the players, threatened to sell anyone who fails to meet up. RUBEN IS NOT JOKING ANYMORE BUT I THINK THIS TARGET IS ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE.
Amorim Issues Tough Challenge as Leny Yoro Thrives in Manchester United’s New-Look Defense
Under the guidance of new boss Ruben Amorim, Manchester United’s squad is gradually adjusting to a more structured and possession-based system. While the team still struggles to convert chances into goals, there’s a clear shift in how the players—especially the defenders—are being asked to perform.
Rather than relying on fast breaks and chaotic transitions, Amorim demands control, composure, and tactical execution across the pitch. He has set a high bar for every player, warning that anyone who fails to meet his standards may not be part of his plans next season.
Centre-Backs Now Playmakers
The Portuguese manager has made it clear that defenders are expected to be more than just stoppers—they must initiate attacks and control the tempo. During the recent Manchester derby, Leny Yoro, Noussair Mazraoui, and Harry Maguire showcased this shift by carrying the ball into midfield and looking to create forward momentum.
Amorim’s tactical demand is simple: centre-backs must have the courage to drive forward and split the lines with their passes.
“I’m doing what the coach asks,” said Leny Yoro. “As defenders, we need to control the game. If I can advance the ball and help the attack, that’s what I’ll do.”
Yoro’s Impressive Impact
Despite playing out of his natural position on the left side, the 19-year-old Frenchman has shown remarkable composure. Since stepping in for the injured Lisandro Martinez, Yoro has put up impressive stats:
90% pass accuracy vs Manchester City, including 21 line-breaking passes
93% pass accuracy vs Nottingham Forest with 100% long-ball success
95% pass accuracy and 100% dribble completion vs Ipswich Town
(Source: SofaScore)
These performances are especially notable considering this is Yoro’s first season at the club, and he’s had to overcome early injury setbacks.
On the Rise
Yoro admits that adjusting to the Premier League took time, but he now feels more confident and fit with each game.
“I needed a bit of time to settle in, but now I feel stronger every week,” he said. “We played well against City and deserved more, but it was a good step forward. We just have to keep improving.”
As United push for Champions League qualification, particularly through the Europa League, Amorim is counting on players like Yoro to lead from the back—both with the ball and without it.
If the young defender continues on this upward trajectory, Manchester United may have u
ncovered their next defensive leader.
