Manchester United’s struggles in the first half of matches under Ruben Amorim have become a recurring theme, but their recent performance against Arsenal provided a glimpse of what they are capable of when they play with confidence. For only the second time in 26 matches under Amorim, United went into halftime with a lead, thanks to Bruno Fernandes’ well-taken free-kick. It was a rare moment of attacking intent in an otherwise cautious first half, reflecting a pattern that has plagued United throughout Amorim’s tenure.
The statistics paint a concerning picture. United have only scored before halftime in seven of Amorim’s matches, with just ten goals in total. They have led at the break five times, only to squander the advantage on three occasions. More often than not, United limp through the opening 45 minutes, struggling to impose themselves on the game. Nine times, they have found themselves trailing at halftime, a habit that has left fans frustrated and questioning the team’s approach.
Against Arsenal, there were moments of concern as United sat deep in a rigid 5-4-1 shape, offering little in attack. André Onana attempted to speed up the play at one point, but with only Alejandro Garnacho in an advanced position and Joshua Zirkzee attempting to join him, United lacked movement and options. The team’s build-up play remained predictable, players were frequently forced into tight situations near the flanks, and Arsenal had little trouble keeping them at bay.
Despite the defensive solidity, it was clear United were relying on Arsenal’s wastefulness in front of goal. Yet, when Fernandes found the net just before halftime, something shifted. United began the second half with renewed confidence, pressing higher and creating chances. Garnacho’s direct running caused problems, while Fernandes, Noussair Mazraoui, and Zirkzee all forced excellent saves from David Raya. Rasmus Højlund, coming off the bench, had two opportunities but lacked the sharpness to convert.
Amorim acknowledged that his team plays with greater belief as matches progress, suggesting that their cautious approach in the first half is part of a broader tactical plan. He noted that when players feel they are in control of a game, they grow into it and play with more freedom. However, the question remains: why can’t they start with this same intensity? Amorim hinted that managing energy levels over 90 minutes is a factor, but this cautious strategy has often left United vulnerable.
The same pattern was evident in the recent Europa League tie against Real Sociedad. The first half was largely uneventful, with United content to sit back. After halftime, they improved, scoring through Zirkzee before conceding a penalty that led to a 1-1 draw. That result means their European hopes hang in the balance ahead of the second leg at Old Trafford.
Amorim does not want his side to be so passive, and he recognizes that such an approach is unacceptable for a club like United. However, breaking the habit will require a shift in mentality and a more proactive game plan from the start. Fernandes’ goal against Arsenal provided a sense of freedom that United have often lacked early in matches. Whether it serves as a turning point or remains an isolated moment of positivity will determine how their season unfolds.
