How will Amorim's tactical shift impact AC Milan?

Ruben Amorim is reportedly preparing to overhaul AC Milan’s tactical setup by adopting a 4-2-3-1 formation as early as the match against Sassuolo. This decision marks a significant departure from the 3-4-2-1 system that has defined the Portuguese coach’s career for years.

Tactical shift follows Lecce victory

The potential change stems from Milan’s convincing Serie A win over Lecce, where the squad tested the new structure. Di Francesco’s Giallorossi served as the backdrop for this experiment, with Amorim expressing satisfaction regarding how his players managed both defensive and offensive phases. The manager noted a marked increase in attacking creation compared to previous fixtures.

According to Tuttosport, the former Manchester United manager views the 4-2-3-1 as the optimal framework to maximize the current squad's potential. He believes the team operates with greater fluidity, danger, and protection under this configuration. During the international break at Milanello, training sessions focused on refining these principles, a process highlighted by a friendly match against Padova.

Gila’s expanded role in build-up

In this revised system, Gila assumes a critical function. Operating from centre-back, he will drift toward the right flank, a movement he already executed during the Lecce encounter. His passing ability remains central to the build-up phase, which stays fluid rather than rigidly fixed to a back four. This approach aims to launch attacks earlier while preventing the counter-attacks that plagued the team in the season’s opening matches.

For Amorim, this represents a historic adjustment. Across more than 300 official matches managed at Braga, Sporting, and Manchester United, he rarely deviated from a back three. The move is designed to leverage the many attacking, ball-carrying, and dribbling talents available to him.

Protecting key offensive assets

By positioning more attackers higher up the pitch, the coach intends to spare them lengthy defensive recoveries. This strategy benefits specific players including Chukwueze, Moreira, and Pulisic. It also offers improved protection for Modric, while ensuring Ramos receives increased service from teammates.