Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has opened up about the emotional toll of the club’s disastrous 2024/25 season, revealing he often went into games already expecting defeat.
Speaking during the team’s pre-season tour of the United States, Amorim described the anxiety he felt before matches as the hardest part of a campaign that saw United finish 15th in the Premier League—their lowest finish since 1989/90.
“I left for games already knowing we would struggle,” Amorim confessed, noting that the lack of competitiveness was evident even before kick-off.
Amorim joined United in November 2024 following the sacking of Erik ten Hag and endured a tough run, managing just seven wins in 27 league matches.
The season was capped off by a painful Europa League final loss to Tottenham in Bilbao. Despite the bleak results, Amorim stood firm in his tactical convictions and refused to compromise team standards to win over players.
“They know now I don’t treat them like babies. I didn’t lower the standards even when things got hard,” he said, emphasizing his commitment to discipline and accountability.
To enforce these standards, Amorim formed a leadership group made up of six players, including Bruno Fernandes, Harry Maguire, and Diogo Dalot.
He believes this core is helping shape a stronger culture within the squad. “I always show players video footage in front of everyone if training standards drop,” he stated, adding that players now understand his words carry action.
He admits, however, that there were moments when he questioned leaving Sporting CP mid-season to take the United job.
Despite the challenges, Amorim remains optimistic and ambitious, declaring he hopes to remain at the club for the next 20 years.
Pre-season results have so far been encouraging, including a 4-1 victory over Bournemouth with many players from last season’s underperforming squad.
New signing Patrick Dorgu has impressed, and Amorim insists this season will be different.
His belief is unwavering that Manchester United can return to the top with the right culture and leadership.
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