Three things we learned from Man United win as Amorim tactic pays off and Fernandes shines

Manchester United produced their best performance of the season so far, beating Liverpool 2–1 in a thrilling encounter at Anfield to claim back-to-back Premier League victories under Ruben Amorim.

Bryan Mbeumo gave United an early lead inside two minutes, finishing coolly after a perfectly timed pass from Amad Diallo. Liverpool equalised late on through Cody Gakpo, but Harry Maguire’s towering header sealed all three points for the visitors and handed Liverpool their fourth straight defeat in all competitions.

Here are the three biggest takeaways from United’s huge win at Anfield.

Ruben Amorim’s tactical calls have faced heavy scrutiny since arriving at Old Trafford, but his decisions at Anfield were both bold and brilliant.

Choosing to bench Benjamin Šeško, despite the striker’s good form, raised eyebrows before kick-off. Amorim instead deployed Matheus Cunha as a false nine, aiming to disrupt Liverpool’s defensive shape by pulling Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté out of position. The result? A tactical masterclass that allowed Mbeumo to exploit the space in behind and fire United ahead within minutes.

Cunha’s movement and willingness to drop deep created passing lanes and freed space for Mbeumo and Amad to combine effectively down the right. Amorim’s decision to play to feet rather than compete aerially against Liverpool’s dominant centre-backs was spot-on.

In his post-match interview, Amorim explained his thinking:

“Especially in the bad moments, you have to go with your gut. I always go by that — right or wrong, it’s key for a manager. Sometimes the characteristics of the game change how you must play. If we put Ben [Šeško] up front, it’s easier for those centre-backs. So we tried something different.”

Amorim’s risk delivered results — proof that his faith in his tactical instincts might finally be turning into tangible progress.

For weeks, critics have questioned Amorim’s decision to play Bruno Fernandes in a deeper role. On Sunday, the Portuguese midfielder delivered the perfect answer.

Operating as one of two central midfielders, Fernandes dictated play with composure and intelligence, showing why he remains United’s heartbeat. He was instrumental in both goals — spraying a perfect diagonal to Amad in the build-up to Mbeumo’s opener and providing the cross for Maguire’s late winner.

Fernandes finished the game with 90% pass accuracy, three key passes, and two goal involvements, showcasing his ability to influence the match even when positioned deeper.

The only blot on his performance was a missed chance midway through the first half, but overall, this was a captain’s display. Amorim’s trust in his midfield system — and Fernandes’ adaptability — now looks vindicated.

“Bruno was at his graceful best,” said FootballPlace analyst John William. “He didn’t just create — he controlled. Amorim’s decision to keep him deeper is starting to look like a masterstroke.”

Few players in the Premier League have shown more resilience this season than Amad Diallo. After missing games due to a family bereavement, the 20-year-old returned to the starting lineup and was sensational at Anfield.

Deployed once again as a right wing-back — a role many doubted suited his skill set — Amad justified Amorim’s faith with a performance full of energy, creativity, and composure.

His deft through ball to Mbeumo for the opening goal underlined his vision and technical quality, while his relentless work rate up and down the flank frustrated Liverpool’s Milos Kerkez throughout the first half.

Amad’s confidence is growing, and Amorim was full of praise for the youngster afterward:

“Amad is doing so well in that position; he’s perfect for it. He was upset when I took him off, but it was just because of the yellow card. His energy, his spirit — it’s so important for us.”

Substituted midway through the second half, Amad left the field to applause from the away fans — a sign of how quickly he’s becoming a fan favourite.

Beyond the three headline performances, what stood out most was Amorim’s in-game management. His use of substitutions — including bringing on defensive reinforcements late on — showed a growing awareness of Premier League tempo.

After early criticism for rigid tactics and slow reactions, Amorim’s adaptability at Anfield was decisive. The Portuguese coach seems to be learning fast — and the squad is finally buying into his philosophy.

Manchester United’s victory at Anfield felt like more than just three points — it felt like a turning point. Amorim’s trust in his ideas, Fernandes’ leadership, and Amad’s resurgence all point toward a team starting to find its identity.

FootballPlace senior writer Liam Rowe summed it up: “Amorim showed tactical maturity, Bruno showed leadership, and Amad showed heart. It was United’s best display of the season — and the clearest sign yet that they’re moving in the right direction.”

Manchester United’s next challenge comes against Brighton in the Premier League. Amorim will hope Mbeumo continues his excellent form as United look to climb further up the table.

Amorim’s focus will now be on maintaining momentum — and ensuring the tactical balance that worked so well at Anfield becomes a consistent feature rather than a one-off success.

👉 Is this the performance that finally turns Manchester United’s season around under Ruben Amorim?