As Manchester United prepare for their crucial derby clash, one glaring issue continues to haunt them—their inability to find the back of the net. With just 25 goals in 19 Premier League matches, the Red Devils’ attacking woes have reached alarming levels, forcing manager Ruben Amorim to experiment with radical solutions.

A Desperate Tactical Gamble

In their recent 1-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest, Amorim made a shocking decision: deploying Harry Maguire as an auxiliary attacker in the dying minutes. Had Murillo not cleared Maguire’s late header off the line, the move might have been celebrated as a masterstroke. Instead, it highlighted the desperation of a team struggling to score.

The Stark Reality of United’s Attack

United’s goal tally becomes even more concerning when dissected. Nine of their 25 goals came against newly promoted sides, while four were scored in a single match against Everton. Against top-half opposition, their attacking output has been woefully inadequate, raising serious questions about Amorim’s system.

Over-Reliance on Fernandes and Amad

Bruno Fernandes (6 goals) and the injured Amad Diallo (5 goals) have been United’s only consistent threats, contributing 44% of the team’s league goals. Even more telling is their creative burden—the pair account for 76% of United’s assists (10 of 13). Without Amad, who has been sidelined for two months, the attack looks toothless.

The Curious Case of United’s Strikers

Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee, United’s primary center-forwards, have managed just two league goals each. Højlund’s struggles are particularly perplexing—after ending a 22-game scoring drought against Leicester, he was inexplicably benched for the next match. Meanwhile, Zirkzee’s role remains undefined, with the Dutchman failing to establish himself as a reliable focal point.

A System Without Identity

Amorim’s tactical approach has only deepened the confusion. His use of Kobbie Mainoo as a false nine against Crystal Palace baffled fans, while Marcus Rashford—once United’s talisman—has been reduced to a peripheral figure with just three goals this season. The lack of a coherent attacking plan is evident, with United relying on individual brilliance rather than a structured system.

The Wingers’ Ineffectiveness

United’s wide players have also disappointed. Alejandro Garnacho (1 goal) and the departed Antony failed to provide consistent service, preferring to cut inside and shoot rather than deliver crosses. This has left Højlund and Zirkzee isolated, with both strikers averaging just one shot per game—a stark contrast to Erling Haaland’s four shots per 90 minutes.

The Haaland Comparison

While Manchester City cope without Haaland, United’s attacking deficiencies are magnified. The Norwegian’s xG of 0.83 per 90 dwarfs Højlund’s 0.21, highlighting the gulf in quality between the two rivals. Alarmingly, 76 Premier League players have a higher xG than Højlund under Amorim.

What Is Amorim’s Plan?

The Portuguese coach’s philosophy remains unclear. Unlike his successful Sporting CP side, which thrived on fluid attacking movements, United look disjointed and predictable. The decision to push Maguire forward epitomizes the chaos—a stopgap solution for a deeper structural issue.

The Derby Dilemma

With the Manchester derby looming, United’s lack of firepower is a major concern. Their last memorable league win under Amorim came against City, courtesy of Amad’s heroics. But with the Ivorian injured and Fernandes overburdened, where will the goals come from?

A Glimmer of Hope?

One potential bright spot is the return of Rashford, who has shown flashes of his old self in recent cameos. If Amorim can reignite the Englishman’s form, he might yet salvage United’s season. Alternatively, a tactical reshuffle—perhaps integrating youth talent like Ethan Wheatley—could provide a spark.

The Bigger Picture

United’s struggles transcend personnel. The club’s recruitment has failed to address their attacking needs, while Amorim’s inability to implement his style has left the team in limbo. Without a clear identity, even the derby—a fixture built on passion and unpredictability—may pass them by.

The Clock Is Ticking

With the season reaching its climax, Amorim must find answers quickly. Whether through tactical adjustments, player reintegration, or sheer desperation, United cannot afford another toothless display. The derby isn’t just a game—it’s a chance to prove they still belong among England’s elite.

Final Thought

Manchester United’s goal drought is more than a temporary slump; it’s a symptom of systemic failure. Unless Amorim can unlock his team’s attacking potential, the Red Devils risk being left behind in the race for relevance. The derby may not define their season, but it will reveal whether they have the fight to turn things around.

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