He Overthinks — Ex-Arsenal Star Reveals Ruben Amorim's Main Problem

Former Arsenal and Everton forward Theo Walcott has pinpointed what he believes to be Ruben Amorim's main problem: overthinking his tactical approach, particularly with his insistence on a 3-4-3 formation. Walcott's comments came after Manchester United's recent 3-0 defeat to Manchester City in the Manchester derby. The ex-player's analysis suggested that while Manchester United had some positive moments in the game, the team ultimately collapsed because Amorim's rigid system forced players into unfamiliar positions, preventing them from being used to their full potential.
According to Walcott, Amorim's tactical choices, especially his tendency to frequently change personnel in the central defense, are a clear sign of overthinking. This approach, he said, has led to patterns of inconsistency. The former Gunner believes that this intense focus on a singular style and constant tinkering eats into the manager's personal life and is sensed by the players, causing them to play within themselves and lose confidence.
Walcott also contrasted Amorim's behavior with that of his counterpart, Pep Guardiola, who apparently took time away from football during the international break to relax. Amorim, by his own admission, had a very intense and focused break, which Walcott sees as a symptom of his "overthinking."
Amorim's History of Tactical Tinkering
This isn't the first time Amorim's methods have come under scrutiny. Since taking over as Manchester United manager in November 2024, he has had a challenging start, winning just eight of his 30 Premier League games. His 3-4-2-1 system has also been questioned by other players and pundits. For example, it has not benefited young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo, who has struggled to nail down a consistent position in the team.
The criticism from Walcott and others highlights a growing concern that Amorim's rigid tactical philosophy and what some see as his excessive focus on control might be holding the team back. While some, like former Manchester United player Michael Owen, believe that Amorim is the right man for the job and that the club's problems are "deep-rooted," others are less convinced. Former Chelsea and Arsenal defender William Gallas has even questioned Amorim's "lost" body language and predicted that the Portuguese manager may not "make it to Christmas."
Looking to the Future
Despite the criticism, Amorim has remained resolute in his beliefs. After the derby defeat, he insisted that he would stick to his style. He has also been candid about the team's struggles, admitting that his players were "thinking too much" during a previous match against Ipswich. Amorim's public statements have often reflected his intense and blunt nature, which he says is a part of who he is as a manager. As the pressure mounts, the question remains whether Amorim will be able to adapt his style and find a way to make his system work at Manchester United, or if his perceived overthinking will prove to be his undoing.
Ruben Amorim reacts to Manchester United's 1-1 draw with Ipswich
This video features Ruben Amorim's post-match reaction to a Manchester United draw, where he explicitly says his players were "thinking too much."
Source@Pulse Sports