Ruben Amorim says everyone at Manchester United is currently underperforming – including himself – and not just those highlighted by Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
Minority owner Ratcliffe took the unusual step of discussing individuals in a series of interviews this week, stating some United players are “not good enough” and “overpaid” and referenced Casemiro, Antony, Jadon Sancho, Rasmus Højlund and André Onana.
It leaves Amorim having to deal with another unwanted problem as he tries to get the best out of a squad currently languishing in 14th place in the Premier League.
But the Portuguese spoke diplomatically when asked about Ratcliffe’s remarks ahead of tomorrow night’s Europa League clash with Real Sociedad at Old Trafford.
He said: “Everyone is underperforming, myself and the players. We can always change that, I include myself in that part of underperforming.
“You are talking about players like Casemiro that have won everything. We know these players can play so much better, that is the focus. He was honest on that. The focus is to change his mind.
“A lot of people will say you are not good enough for the club, but my feeling is you can change that with results.
“In training I feel they want this really bad.”
Zirkzee's strike in San Sebastian leaves our #UEL last-16 tie in the balance 💪#MUFC
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) March 12, 2025
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Amorim happy with Ratcliffe backing
One person who was supported by Ratcliffe was Amorim himself and he is grateful for the backing, adding: “It has been really good since day one. We are honest with each other. We have simple, clear and honest conversations.
“To give me support publicly is really good for a coach. Since day one I have felt the support of everybody.”
United gained a decent 1-1 draw in San Sebastián last week and head into the second leg of their round of 16 tie against Sociedad as favourites to go through.
Winning the competition would see the club sneak into the Champions League and its importance is not lost on Amorim.
“We have a clear plan to address next season,” he said. “We can still reach the Champions League, so you never know. It can change the preparation for next season.
“We have a plan and know what to do, in terms of what type of players to bring in.
“This competition [Europa League] could change things [selling players] so we are focused on this game.”
🔙 to it 📍#MUFC || #UEL pic.twitter.com/OwJp23NTu2
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) March 12, 2025
Yoro ruled out
United will again have to field a side weakened through injury, although the return of Mason Mount to team training today was a boost.
The Sociedad game comes too soon for the England midfielder while Amorim will also have to cope without Leny Yoro, who was injured against Arsenal at the weekend.
He said: ”It is too soon for Mason Mount, Leny Yoro is out, Harry Maguire cannot play this one, but I hope to have him for Sunday. Manuel Ugarte is in the squad.”
