Amorim challenges Chukwueze to prove he can thrive in a defensive role

Ruben Amorim believes Samuel Chukwueze has the mentality and character required to operate as a wing-back, despite the Nigeria international being more accustomed to playing as an attacking winger.

The manager has used a 3-4-2-1 formation exclusively during Manchester United’s pre-season matches. While some players have settled into clearly defined positions within the system, others have had to adjust to unfamiliar roles during the friendly fixtures.

Chukwueze has so far been deployed as a wing-back after returning from a largely successful loan spell at Fulham. The position demands a greater defensive contribution than the one he has traditionally been expected to make, and some supporters have expressed concerns about whether he possesses the necessary defensive qualities.

Amorim addressed those concerns at his news conference on Saturday, explaining why he intends to continue using the 21-year-old in that position during the season.

The Portuguese manager suggested that defensive ability is not determined solely by a player’s natural instincts or previous position, but also by their attitude and willingness to work.

“It depends on the player’s mentality. Sometimes, people are only interested in a player because he is very good offensively and they think he cannot defend.”

“Defending is above all a question of mentality and character, qualities that Chukwueze possesses. He is improving; of course, he is not a typical defender, but we believe he fits our style of play. He can really help us control the ball and I thought he defended much better against Manchester United,” Amorim said.

Chukwueze’s role represents a significant change from the position he has most often occupied during his career. As an attacking winger, his main strengths have been associated with his ability to threaten opponents in forward areas, while Amorim’s system requires him to contribute across the pitch.

The manager nevertheless believes Chukwueze can adapt and provide Manchester United with an additional option on the flank. Amorim’s comments indicate that the player’s defensive development will be judged alongside his work rate, mentality and ability to support the team’s possession-based approach.

The Nigerian is expected to receive another opportunity to play on Sunday evening. Attention will focus on whether he can continue to improve defensively while also contributing in the final third.

There will also be interest in whether Chukwueze can add to his number of assists after being used in the more advanced wide role within Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 system.