Amorim’s surprising explanation for dropping Garnacho and Rashford against Manchester City

Manchester United manager Rubén Amorim has sent shockwaves through the footballing world by dropping both Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho from his starting lineup for the highly anticipated Manchester derby. The Portuguese tactician's decision has left fans and pundits alike scratching their heads, as they try to unravel the reasoning behind such a bold move.

Amorim's Cryptic Comments

Speaking ahead of the game, Amorim offered a cryptic explanation for his team selection. "We try to evaluate everything: training, performance in matches, commitment to teammates, pushing teammates forward," he said. "Everything is taken into account when we analyse and try to pick the players. So that's my selection. Simple."

While Amorim's comments provide little in the way of specifics, they suggest that his decision is based on a thorough assessment of his squad. The Portuguese boss is clearly placing a great deal of emphasis on factors beyond just a player's raw talent.

Potential Reasons Behind the Decision

Several theories have been put forward to explain Amorim's surprising decision. Some have suggested that he may be looking to rotate his squad to keep his players fresh for the busy festive period. Others have speculated that Amorim could be experimenting with a new tactical approach, one that doesn't necessarily require the attacking flair of Rashford and Garnacho.

It's also possible that Amorim is sending a message to his squad, emphasizing the importance of hard work and commitment. By leaving out two of his star players, he may be aiming to inspire the rest of the team to step up and prove their worth.

The Impact on the Game

The absence of Rashford and Garnacho is a significant blow to Manchester United. Both players have been in excellent form this season and are capable of producing moments of individual brilliance. However, it also presents an opportunity for other players to step up and stake their claim for a regular starting place.

The Manchester derby is always a fiercely contested affair, and the absence of these two key players adds an extra layer of intrigue to the match. With both teams vying for a top-four finish, the pressure is on for United to find a way to cope without their star duo.