Pep Guardiola had closely analyzed Ruben Amorim’s tactical play with Sporting CP, but the soon-to-be Manchester United manager’s strategies still proved tough to counter. In advance of Tuesday’s surprising 4-1 defeat of his 2023 Champions League-winning side, Guardiola admitted to respecting Amorim’s tactical expertise, which has fueled success at Sporting CP in Lisbon and is expected to reshape Manchester United’s style when Amorim replaces Erik ten Hag.
Guardiola praised Amorim’s accomplishments, emphasizing his success in establishing a cohesive team identity at Sporting and fostering young players into top European talents. Sporting’s approach under Amorim involves quick, fluid passing sequences, seamless transitions that stretch opponents, and strategic overloading to apply consistent pressure—elements Guardiola had noted and appreciated.
Despite this careful preparation, Guardiola seemed caught off guard by Sporting’s sharp execution of Amorim’s tactics. In what served as a heartfelt send-off at Estadio Jose Alvalade, Sporting demonstrated remarkable control and efficiency to dismantle Manchester City, highlighting Amorim’s tactical skill and reinforcing his reputation as a rising managerial star.
Guardiola commented on Sporting’s distinct style, saying, “Their structure is clear. They’re disciplined in possession starting from the back, and players like Gyokeres make them dangerous in open play. Their speed, control, and strength on the wings are incredible.
Despite a few new faces, they’re still showing the same high intensity and mentality as they did two years ago. Winning the Portuguese league after twenty years is testament to Amorim’s impact.”
After Manchester City took an early lead through Phil Foden, Sporting responded quickly, producing several promising chances of their own.
While Gyokeres initially missed an opportunity to chip the ball past City goalkeeper Ederson, he soon redeemed himself by breaking through City’s defense to score, illustrating the effectiveness of Amorim’s fast-paced counter-attacking strategy, which focuses on exploiting opponents’ vulnerabilities.
Gyokeres went on to score twice more with penalties in the second half, securing a hat-trick and leaving Manchester United supporters optimistic about Amorim’s impending arrival at Old Trafford.
Fans are already speculating that Amorim might attempt to bring Gyokeres to United, pointing out similarities between Gyokeres and United’s current striker, Rasmus Hojlund. With this display of tactical brilliance, Amorim has stirred excitement among United fans who are hopeful he’ll usher in a revitalized era for the team.
