Manchester United's Amorim Calls for Additional Attacking Wing-Back to Boost System

Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has stressed the need for an additional attack-minded wing-back to enhance his team's tactical effectiveness, pointing to Amad Diallo as the current lone example of such a profile in his squad.

The Portuguese coach faced criticism following Monday's lackluster 1-0 defeat to 10-man Everton, where his decision to replace injured left wing-back Patrick Dorgu with full-back Diogo Dalot drew particular scrutiny. This substitution left United devoid of attacking threat on the flank, a stark contrast to Crystal Palace's thriving wing-back duo of Daniel Munoz and Tyrick Mitchell under Oliver Glasner.

"We need time to improve the team's characteristics," Amorim stated. "Against Everton, we needed a right-footed option like Amad on the opposite side. These are the profiles we must develop to progress."

Despite both teams employing a 3-4-2-1 formation, Amorim dismissed direct comparisons with Sunday's opponents Palace: "We play differently. They're executing their system better currently, but our defensive and offensive approaches vary significantly."

Palace's Wing-Back Admires United

The discussion comes as Palace's standout performer Munoz recently expressed admiration for United, telling AS: "Playing for clubs like Barcelona, PSG, Real Madrid, or Manchester United would be a dream. I'm focused on Palace now, but we'll see when the winter window arrives."

Glasner defended Amorim's system ahead of their clash, noting United's league-high expected goals (xG) this season: "Their investment in attackers like Bryan Mbeumo shows clear progress. Their intensity and work-rate have visibly improved from last term."

Neville Criticizes Tactical Choices

Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville lambasted Amorim's in-game decisions during the Everton match, stating on his podcast: "Substituting Dalot for Shaw makes little sense. Where's the urgency? United's slow play and lack of box presence were embarrassing against 10 men."

With Palace sitting fifth and United tenth - separated by just two points - Sunday's Selhurst Park encounter could prove pivotal in both clubs' European qualification ambitions.