In a detailed post-match analysis, Manchester United icon Rio Ferdinand has voiced significant concerns regarding the compatibility of four current United players with manager Rúben Amorim’s dynamic tactical system. Despite a narrow 3-2 victory over Ipswich Town on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, Ferdinand contends that certain squad members lack the essential physical attributes required to effectively execute Amorim’s high-intensity strategies.
**Ferdinand’s Post-Match Analysis**
Following the match, Ferdinand emphasized that while securing three points is crucial, underlying issues persist that warrant immediate attention. He specifically identified Joshua Zirkzee, Rasmus Højlund, Harry Maguire, and Matthijs de Ligt as players whose physical profiles may not align with the demands of Amorim’s preferred 3-4-3 formation. Ferdinand noted that the team’s progress under Amorim has been slower than anticipated, attributing this to a lack of physicality and mobility within the squad’s core. He stated, “This team aren’t a mobile, dynamic team. If you look through the heartbeat of this team, they have other qualities. But being physical, having the ability to overrun teams physically—they don’t have that capacity.” citeturn0news10
Ferdinand elaborated on each player’s fit within the current system:
– **Joshua Zirkzee and Rasmus Højlund**: Both forwards, acquired for significant fees, have struggled to adapt to the physical demands of Amorim’s pressing game. Their playing styles, while technically proficient, may not provide the relentless pressure required upfront.
– **Harry Maguire and Matthijs de Ligt**: Despite their defensive prowess, Ferdinand expressed concerns over their ability to cover large spaces, a necessity in a high defensive line. He remarked, “We have players like Harry Maguire and Matthijs de Ligt defending the box and are really strong, but when they have to cover a lot of space, the game changes for them.” citeturn0search9
**Match Overview**
The encounter with Ipswich Town was anything but straightforward. An early mishap involving goalkeeper Andre Onana and defender Patrick Dorgu gifted Ipswich an unexpected lead. Ferdinand criticized the lack of communication, stating, “Onana doesn’t need to come in. The full-back is in complete control and he can just hold his ground and let him play it back to him.” citeturn0search5
Despite the early setback, United managed to equalize through an own goal by Sam Morsy, followed by a go-ahead goal from Matthijs de Ligt. However, the situation worsened when Dorgu received a red card just before halftime, reducing United to ten men. Ipswich capitalized on the numerical advantage, leveling the score once more. It was only through a decisive header from Harry Maguire early in the second half that United secured the win. citeturn0search9
**Implications for Squad and Management**
The four players highlighted by Ferdinand represent a combined investment of £236 million, none of whom were signed under Amorim’s tenure. This financial outlay underscores the challenges the manager faces in molding the squad to fit his tactical vision. Ferdinand suggested that an overhaul might be necessary, stating that Amorim “needs to find those type of players with the capabilities of carrying out not only tactically what he wants, but the physicality is equally important.” citeturn0news10
However, financial constraints may compel United to offload existing players before pursuing new acquisitions. The team’s current standing in the Premier League further complicates matters, as they sit 14th on the table. With European competition spots slipping away, success in domestic cups, such as the upcoming FA Cup tie against Fulham and the Europa League fixture against Real Sociedad, may offer alternative routes to continental tournaments. citeturn0news10
