Manchester United is in the midst of a challenging season, evident in their recent performance against Leicester City, where they secured a much-needed 3-0 victory. This win not only boosted their morale but also marked a pivotal moment for striker Rasmus Hojlund, who had been struggling to find the back of the net. After a daunting 21-match goal drought, Hojlund finally broke his silence and scored during this match, sending the fans into a frenzy.
Under the management of Ruben Amorim, who took over in November 2024, there have been considerable changes in the team's dynamics and strategies. Hojlund noted, “Of course, I’m happy, but it’s not all about goals. I’m obviously very happy to get my goal today and it gives me a lot of confidence, but I think it comes down to my performances as well.” His sentiments reflect the broader adaptation process many players are experiencing while adjusting to Amorim’s tactical approach.
That tactical approach has seen some players shifting into new positions to better complement Amorim's philosophy. Hojlund explained that while adapting to a new system, he feels as though he is finding his footing. “I think I’ve been growing into it lately and starting to look a bit better,” he stated, showcasing his commitment to improvement as Manchester United gears up for the rest of the season.
In addition to Hojlund’s goal, the match against Leicester also saw contributions from Alejandro Garnacho, who added another goal, and Bruno Fernandes, who sealed the victory with a late goal in the 90th minute. The 3-0 victory not only highlighted the players' capabilities but also served as a foundation for rebuilding confidence amidst a tumultuous campaign.
Following this match, Hojlund has been taking proactive steps to maintain his mental well-being amid the pressures of playing for Manchester United. He revealed a light-hearted yet practical decision of getting a dog with his girlfriend to “block out” the haters, an initiative he hopes will keep his focus sharp amidst the external noise that comes with the territory of being a professional footballer.
Meanwhile, Matthijs de Ligt's arrival from Bayern Munich in the summer of 2024 has also provided a new dynamic for the squad. Despite entering Old Trafford with high expectations, the Dutch defender faced immediate criticism from Manchester United legend Paul Scholes. Scholes voiced his concerns on The Overlap Fan Debate, remarking, “You know what? Manchester United are talking about bringing players in who can’t get in their team. [De Ligt] from Bayern Munich… he’s not played for them. That’s a big concern for me.”
Scholes' apprehension stemmed from de Ligt's lack of playing time at Bayern, which raised questions about his readiness to compete in the Premier League. His early performances validated some of Scholes' concerns, particularly during a disappointing 3-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur. Yet, following Ruben Amorim's tactical adjustments, de Ligt has begun to show signs of improvement, contributing to recent solid performances.
After improvements in his form, as noted by Scholes later on The Overlap, “I think he’s [De Ligt] been a lot better. He’s done a lot better, of course he has. I just… Man Utd are 13th. In the last few weeks, we’ve looked better.” De Ligt’s efforts culminated in a standout display in the victory over Leicester, emphasizing his growing importance in the squad and highlighting his resilience in overcoming early scrutiny.
Much of this transformation in form can be attributed to Amorim’s change in tactics, adopting a 3-4-3 formation that has afforded players more defensive stability. With wing-backs to provide cover and a three-man defense, players like de Ligt have been less exposed and have begun to flourish. As the team begins finding its rhythm, it stands in stark contrast to the previous season’s struggles.
The shift in team performance comes not a moment too soon as Manchester United gears up for an important Premier League clash against Nottingham Forest on April 1, 2025. Amorim’s coaching philosophy continues to raise questions, yet the players seem determined to embrace the challenges that lie ahead.
The victory against Leicester has undoubtedly infused optimism within the squad, and their upcoming matches will be crucial in determining their standing in both the league and their overall success for the season. In a league where every point counts, this emerging confidence could make all the difference in their quest for a brighter future under Amorim's leadership.
