Leny Yoro Sends Clear Message to Ruben Amorim About Manchester United's Defensive Problem
Teenage defender Leny Yoro expresses confidence in playing on the left side of defense, offering a solution for Manchester United's injury crisis.
Leny Yoro’s journey at Manchester United has been anything but straightforward, but the young Frenchman is now ready to make a great impact under Ruben Amorim. After a difficult start to life at Old Trafford, including a frustrating injury setback during pre-season, Yoro has bounced back and is eager to help solve a key issue in United’s defence.
Yoro joined Manchester United last summer in a move that shocked many, especially since United beat Real Madrid to his signature. However, his debut season hit a stumbling block when he suffered an injury during pre-season, which kept him sidelined until November. By then, manager Erik ten Hag, who originally brought him in, had been replaced by Ruben Amorim.
Under Amorim, United has switched to a three-at-the-back formation. Yoro has had the chance to play regularly, mainly on the right side of the defence, but he’s also featured on the left when needed.
United’s first-choice left center-back, Lisandro Martínez, sustained an injury that has created a big hole in the squad. Since Martínez will likely miss the remainder of the season, Amorim will have to make a difficult choice on who will fill his place.
Yoro, eager to take on more responsibility, has sent a clear message to Amorim about his readiness. In a recent interview, the 19-year-old explained how comfortable he is playing on the left side of defence, despite being naturally right-footed.
“I’m right-footed, so it’s easier for me on the right, but I really enjoy playing on the left,” Yoro said during an appearance on Rio Ferdinand’s YouTube channel. “When I come inside, I can make long passes to the striker or into the middle. It’s no problem for me.”
Adapting to a new system under Amorim has not been easy, with limited time on the training pitch. However, Yoro has expressed how the team has been using video analysis to improve their understanding of the tactical changes.
“We don’t have too much time to train, so we do a lot of video analysis,” Yoro explained. “And when we do have time on the pitch together, he tries to give us as much tactical work as possible.”
Since making his return from injury, Yoro has started seven games and made eight more appearances as a substitute. His versatility and willingness to adapt to different defensive positions could now be key as United tries to cope with the absence of Martínez.
With Martínez out for the season, Amorim may turn to Yoro to fill the void on the left side of defence. Yoro’s natural ability to play both right and left could make him a big part of the team’s future.
Other options, like Ayden Heaven and Noussair Mazraoui, could also step into the role, but Yoro’s experience and confidence may give him the edge. Despite his young age, Yoro is showing that he’s ready to take on more responsibility and prove himself as a key figure in United’s backline.