Belief in Amorim Holds — For Now
In the lead-up to Manchester United’s Europa League final clash with Tottenham, the message from Old Trafford was clear: win or lose, Ruben Amorim would remain at the helm. Club leadership backed him privately and hoped they wouldn’t have to say so publicly.
But after a dispiriting 1-0 defeat in Bilbao, Amorim made that choice for them. Ending his press conference with a defiant statement, he made his position known.
“I’m not going to talk about the future,” he began—only to pivot minutes later: “I have nothing to show the fans right now.
All that’s left is a little faith. If the board or the fans think I’m not the right guy, I’ll walk away tomorrow without a word about compensation. But I won’t quit. I believe in my work. And I won’t change who I am.”
These words came from the very manager whom United CEO Omar Berrada had worked hard to bring in early from Sporting, hoping to give Amorim time to assess the squad ahead of a crucial summer.
Despite the final disappointment and another goal-shy performance, insiders at Old Trafford maintain that the backing for Amorim remains firm—for now.
The club’s leadership believes supporters, too, will continue to back him, especially in Sunday’s final Premier League fixture against Champions League hopefuls Aston Villa.
But the stakes have changed. With the Europa League loss came the death of United’s hopes for European football next season—and a potential £100 million windfall. It’s the first time since 2014 they’ll miss out on continental competition.
Financial implications will force United to be more selective in the transfer market. Interest in Wolves’ forward Matheus Cunha reflects a shift toward proven domestic talent.
Only Bruno Fernandes has consistently delivered goals, and the team’s 15th blank of the season in Bilbao underscores the urgent need for firepower.
“It was clear we were the better team,” Amorim insisted. “But again, we failed to score. It’s not just one player—it’s across the team.”
Amorim had called for bravery across the club. But now specifics are needed. Rasmus Hojlund, signed with great promise, has been harshly dismissed by some insiders as “Championship level.”
Mason Mount was invisible in Bilbao. Amad Diallo threatened, but lacked end product.
Even Tottenham’s winning goal came from a fortunate deflection, yet United never looked like equalizing. The body language spoke volumes—Onana sat slumped in his box, Garnacho sobbed at midfield, and Amorim paced, staring at the turf.
He must now rally a demoralized squad not only for Sunday’s game but also for two post-season fixtures in Asia—unpopular among players but financially necessary.
The deeper challenge? Rebuilding a broken squad without the luxury of a massive overhaul. Victor Lindelof and Christian Eriksen are likely leaving. Bruno Fernandes is a Saudi target.
Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo have uncertain futures. But how many players could Amorim confidently label “untouchable”? Not many.
The manager may not have the tools to execute his vision. But he also doesn’t have the luxury of time or patience in a results-driven environment.
The specter of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer looms large—another manager who lost a European final and couldn’t recover when results soured.
For now, Amorim remains United’s man. But that loyalty has limits. His next moves—on and off the pitch—must begin to justify the faith placed in him. Because while support remains, it’s already beginning to fray.
Belief in Amorim Holds — For Now