Tactical Analysis: Farewell to the counter attack kings
Briefly

Manchester United has a rich history of scoring sensational counterattack goals, symbolizing its club identity. Recent attempts to focus on high possession and pressing tactics under coach Ruben Amorim failed, prompting a strategic shift. In 2025, United's average possession fell to 51%, reflecting a more conservative approach to matches, especially against top rivals. The team is embracing counterattacking tactics, showcasing a willingness to allow opponents more ball control while looking to capitalize on breaks, ultimately illustrating a return to their footballing roots.
Historically, United loves to counterattack. For almost 30 years, the blistering pace of their forwards made them ruthlessly lethal on counterattacks. This is the club identity.
Ruben Amorim has started relying on more counter-attacking tactics. When he first arrived, he tried to implement high possession and lots of pressing, but it didn’t work.
In 2025, United's average possession dropped from 56.13% to 51%, showcasing a distinct change in strategy as Amorim shifted focus toward counterattacking.
The presence of a scaled-back press has been notable, with United allowing opponents to advance up the pitch, transitioning back to their counterattacking roots.
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