Amorim: “I Went to Games Knowing We Would Struggle”

Ruben Amorim took over as Manchester United manager in November 2024

Amorim: “I Went to Games Knowing We Would Struggle”

Amorim Opens Up: From Pre-Match Despair to Long-Term Manchester United Vision

Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has delivered a frank assessment of his first season in charge, admitting he travelled to games knowing his team would struggle — but says that pain has shaped a stronger, more resilient squad for the 2025-26 campaign.

Amorim, who replaced Erik ten Hag in November 2024, presided over United’s worst top-flight finish since 1989-90, ending 15th in the Premier League and suffering a painful Europa League final defeat to Tottenham.

“The hardest part wasn’t returning home after games—it was leaving for the stadium, already knowing we were going to struggle,” Amorim told reporters during United’s pre-season tour in the U.S.

Culture Shift at Carrington

Despite the crushing form—just 7 wins in 27 league games under his leadership—Amorim refused to abandon his principles. His steadfastness, he believes, laid the foundation for real change.

“I didn’t change the rules to win over players,” he said. “Now they understand that when I say something, I mean it.”

He’s now implemented a leadership group consisting of six players:

Bruno Fernandes
Harry Maguire
Tom Heaton
Diogo Dalot
Lisandro Martinez
Noussair Mazraoui

This group will enforce discipline and handle “the small things” in the dressing room.

Support from Sir Jim Ratcliffe

Amorim also praised his relationship with co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who previously called him “an outstanding young manager.”

“He sends me messages—sometimes even gifs. It’s easy with Jim. If you know your stuff and explain your decisions, he respects that.”

“I Want to Stay for 20 Years”

Despite openly admitting that he considered whether leaving Sporting CP mid-season was a mistake, Amorim remains focused.

“I chose this club after five years of waiting. I want to stay for 20 years.”

Amorim added that retaining his job despite last season’s results is evidence of the board’s belief in his long-term project.

Unwanted Players, Ruthless Decisions

United have isolated four players—Garnacho, Sancho, Antony, and Malacia—from first-team training.

“Garnacho is talented,” Amorim said. “But sometimes it doesn’t work out. He wants a new challenge. I’m working only with players who will stay.”

Looking Ahead: Return to Europe the Target

While last season’s drop left United far from their elite perch, Amorim remains confident of a return to European football in 2025-26.

“We need to return to Europe, that’s the minimum,” he said. “Long term, I have no doubt we can win the Premier League and Champions League again.”

He cited the club’s pedigree, fanbase, financial resources, and now—a new culture—as key ingredients for success.