Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has revealed the four players who inspired his team’s epic comeback win against Lyon in the Europa League quarter-final. United came from behind to win the match 5-4 on aggregate, with Amorim making tactical changes at half-time in extra-time that ultimately swung the match in his team’s favor.
Tactical Changes Pay Off
Amorim instructed his teammates to make some tactical changes, which included moving Harry Maguire to an attacking role, Casemiro near the goal, Kobbie Mainoo near the goal, and Mason Mount to cross balls. These changes paid off, with Maguire scoring the match-winning goal, while Casemiro grabbed an assist for both the Maguire and Mainoo goals, and also won the penalty that Bruno Fernandes scored.
Amorim’s Half-Time Team Talk
Asked after the game what he had told his players to inspire the comeback, Amorim told reporters: “At half-time in extra-time, it was to change the positions. To try to be really clear about the position of Harry Maguire, trying to put Casemiro near the goal, Kobbie Mainoo near the goal, Mason Mount to cross balls, and try to explain that we need to score one goal, and anything can change. So we tried to push for the team, but of course, it is a difficult moment, and then you have to be really lucky to change the game. That was the case today.”
Belief in the Team
Amorim would have been forgiven had he given up any hope of a comeback, but he always believed his side could make something happen in front of a home crowd. He added: “You think it is hard but you try to make some changes or try to push the players and to force yourself to give energy to the players. In this stadium, in this club, you always have the feeling anything can happen. Today was another day like that.”
What’s Next?
United will now face Athletic Bilbao in a two-legged semi-final tie as they search for their first piece of silverware under Amorim and the chance to qualify for the Champions League. The win against Lyon was a testament to the team’s resilience and determination, and Amorim will be hoping that his team can continue to perform at this level as they progress in the competition.