Amorim is expected to move United to a back three for his opening game at Ipswich with two hard-working midfielders—former player Manuel Ugarte included—offering an aggressive buffer ahead of the back line. The switch should offer more defensive solidity from the outset.

Ruben Amorim has vowed to give Manchester United their identity back – and wants all his players to take the Old Trafford stadium and museum tour so they can be inspired by the club’s rich history. United have been accused of lacking a clear identity and style of play during 11 largely success-starved years since Sir Alex Ferguson retired in 2013.