Ruben Amorim has distanced himself from suggestions he may resign as Manchester United manager, insisting he has a “clear plan” to turn things around despite a dismal Premier League campaign.
United’s 2-0 loss to West Ham last weekend—leaving them 16th with 17 defeats—sparked speculation over Amorim’s future after he hinted he could step down next season if performances do not improve. But speaking ahead of next Wednesday’s Europa League final against Tottenham, the Portuguese boss clarified his position.
“I am far from quitting,” Amorim said. “Since arriving, I’ve spoken constantly about standards. I can’t accept these results in the Premier League and stay silent—I must take responsibility. But I have a clear plan and understand the team’s problems.”
More upbeat than in the immediate aftermath of the West Ham loss, Amorim admitted the pressure is high: “We need to perform, or they will change us.”
Amorim also confirmed reports that he personally paid for his backroom staff’s tickets to the Europa League final, after the club declined to cover the costs amid ongoing budget cuts under minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe. United have made over 400 redundancies since Ratcliffe assumed control of football operations from the Glazer family.
“It’s hard to manage right now,” Amorim admitted. “We’ve lost a lot of people and it’s not easy for the club to give when they’ve taken so much. But this is about respect. It won’t change my life to help. The players felt the same way—we all want the staff and their families there.”
Injuries continue to hamper United ahead of the final. Centre-backs Leny Yoro, Matthijs de Ligt and Ayden Heaven are all doubtful, while Diogo Dalot is racing to recover from a calf injury. Amorim ruled all four out of Friday’s match against Chelsea but hasn’t given up hope for the final.
“Dalot is trying really hard,” he said. “I don’t want to risk him too soon and cause a bigger issue, but he’s working hard.”
Dalot echoed the sentiment, telling Sky Sports News: “I’m doing everything I can to be fit for the final.”
Lisandro Martínez and Joshua Zirkzee have been ruled out, while Jonny Evans and Toby Collyer returned to training this week.