After Manchester United's 2-1 friendly win over West Ham United, Amorim spoke to Camel Live in an interview, sharing his analysis of the game and thoughts on players like Rasmus Højlund and Bruno Fernandes.
On the benefits of scoring early for the team:
“This is completely different from last season. Today, we didn’t face too many difficulties. We scored a goal, which helped us perform better. We controlled some possession and did well in one-on-one defensive situations.”
“Especially in high pressing, particularly when dealing with their goal kicks, this helped us win possession at times. When we win the ball, we need more sustained possession so that we can get close to the box, find small spaces, and better control and carry the ball.”
Did adjusting the lineup have an impact on the team?
“Before West Ham scored, we were in control of the game and had more chances. Then we faced some difficulties, and after that, we brought on many young players. It was a good test for improving the team.”
Who stood out?
“All players. I don’t want to single anyone out, but Højlund played well. I really like Højlund's style of play—his movement and one-on-one duels in the game were excellent. When we played long balls, his link-up play with teammates was good too; he did a great job.”
“Cunha is the kind of player who can help us. He can dribble past opponents, which is something that can change the game. We lacked that last season. In the first half, Kobbie Mainoo and Ugarte also performed very well.”
“I don’t plan to talk about the lineup in the second half, because it was really tough for the 11 (actually 10) young players, but I really like this team. Of course, we have to focus on the game and improve some aspects.”
On tactical discussions:
“I think we need to not only prepare for the game but also teach players how to play, because opponents organize themselves differently now, and sometimes you don’t know what to expect. Many midfielders drop back into the defense, and defenders start to push forward.”
“So you can’t control the game like you used to—like when you knew they’d set up with a back four. These small details are things we need to prepare for, but they need to understand all situations, and we work on that in training.”
On Bruno Fernandes sometimes appearing frustrated:
“This was very obvious last season. You could see it in his goals and assists, but it’s not just that. I feel now he has more players to help him lead the team, which is a good thing.”
“He’s our leader and extremely important—not just on the pitch, but off it too. He leads by example, works really hard, is always ready to play, and even takes the field with injuries at times.”
“Sometimes the issue is that he gets frustrated, loses a bit of focus on his own role. Sometimes he’s too eager to help his teammates, which isn’t the best approach. They need to do their own jobs—for example, waiting for the pass.”
How will you arrange his position?
“He has a role or position in each game; he can’t play every position. Last season, I sometimes had him drop deeper to get more possession in build-up play, but then we missed Bruno’s influence around the box.”
“Mbeumo and Cunha bring different qualities to the team, and I really like Mainoo’s style of play—he’ll get more support this season.”
“Bruno covers a lot of ground. Maybe he’s not the same kind of player in terms of sprints, but he runs a lot, has great stamina, and is smart. That’s not a problem. Bruno’s fitness isn’t an issue, whether he plays as a holding midfielder or an attacking midfielder.”
Preparations for the opening game against Arsenal?
"They’re a strong team. We need to get all players ready, but we don’t have many weeks or games to prepare the entire squad. That might change. As you saw in the second half, some players could feature in the opening game—but that’s not a decision I’ve made yet."
