"Why is he playing Antony's spot" - Fans react as Ruben Amorim names Manchester United star in unnatural position for Ipswich clash
Manchester United fans have been left perplexed after Ruben Amorim's starting XI for their Premier League clash against Ipswich Town was revealed. The Portuguese tactician is set to take charge of the Red Devils for the first time at Old Trafford on Sunday, November 24.
Manchester United are undefeated in their last four games across all competitions, including their last two games in the league against Chelsea and Leicester City. Ruud van Nistelrooy oversaw the run, having been in interim charge of the side after Erik ten Hag's sacking.
Ruben Amorim appears to have implemented a change of shape in the side, opting for the 3-5-2 system that worked so well in his time at Sporting CP. The 39-year-old tactician has handed a second successive league start to winger Amad Diallo, while Alejandro Garnacho has also been restored to the XI. The club's fans were surprised by the choice of the coach in playing Diallo at wing-back, and they shared their thoughts on X.
Some fans were unsure of the coach's tactics, while some expressed optimism at the choice to bring a positive outcome.
One fan questioned the choice of Amad Diallo at wing-back, a position Antony was trialed in during training.
"Why is Amad playing Antony's spot", they wrote.
Another fan expressed their lack of confidence in the setup.
"I think we are cooked but lets see", they posted.
Another shared the same sentiment.
"I don’t know about that", they wrote.
A fan questioned the choices of the new coach.
"What's Amorim doing 😂", they wrote.
A fan expressed their optimism that Diallo could thrive at wing-back like Geovany Quenda did at Sporting.
"I said this and was ridiculed. Amad could be our Quenda", they posted.
Ruben Amorim has opted to go for the duo of Marcus Rashford and Garnacho as his forwards for the game. The Portuguese coach has decided against starting either strikers Joshua Zirkzee or Rasmus Hojlund for the game.
Manchester United handed several boosts for Ipswich tie
Manchester United have received a number of injury boosts as they prepare to face newly-promoted Ipswich Town at Portman Road. The Red Devils have a near full-strength squad for the game against the Tractor Boys.
Left-back Tyrell Malacia has been named in the matchday squad for the first time in 17 months. Luke Shaw is also in the squad for the first time this season. Midfielder Mason Mount is with the squad and on the bench, as well as Brazilian forward Antony and teenage star Kobbie Mainoo.
Defenders Lisandro Martinez and Harry Maguire remain sidelined for Manchester United, as does summer acquisition Leny Yoro. Sweden international Victor Lindelof is also out of the squad, having picked up an injury during the international break.