Manchester United co-owner, Sir Jim Ratcliffe has firmly backed under-pressure manager Ruben Amorim, insisting the Portuguese coach will be at Old Trafford for a “long time” despite a rocky start to his tenure.
Amorim, who replaced Erik ten Hag in November, has struggled to turn United’s fortunes around.
With just 11 wins in 26 games, speculation has mounted over whether the 40-year-old would be replaced in the summer.
However, Ratcliffe has poured cold water on those rumors, reaffirming his belief in Amorim’s long-term vision for the club.
Ratcliffe’s Strong Vote of Confidence
In an interview with the BBC, Ratcliffe dismissed doubts over Amorim’s future and praised his efforts under difficult circumstances.
“If I actually look at the squad which is available to Ruben, I think he is doing a really good job, to be honest,” he said.
“I think Ruben is an outstanding young manager. I really do. He’s an excellent manager, and I think he will be there for a long time.”
United’s struggles have continued, with their 1-1 draw against Arsenal on Sunday leaving them in 14th place, a shocking position for a club of their stature.
Their eighth-place finish last season was already the lowest in the Premier League era, but things have worsened.
A Damning Verdict on United’s Squad
Ratcliffe, who took control of football operations after purchasing a minority stake in the club last year, did not hold back in his criticism of the squad he inherited.
“Some are not good enough and some probably are overpaid,” he admitted, acknowledging the need for drastic changes.
“For us to mold the squad that we are fully responsible for, and accountable for, will take time.”
The billionaire businessman is overseeing a massive transformation, aiming to bring United back to its glory days. However, his approach has not been universally welcomed.
Fan Backlash and Protests at Old Trafford
Ratcliffe witnessed firsthand the growing unrest among United supporters at Old Trafford on Sunday, as thousands protested before kickoff.
While most of the anger was directed at the Glazer family, Ratcliffe himself has faced scrutiny for his sweeping cost-cutting measures, including making 450 staff redundant and raising ticket prices.
He defended the controversial decisions, claiming they were necessary to avoid financial catastrophe.
“We are in the process of change, and it’s an uncomfortable period—disruptive,” he said. “I do feel sympathy with the fans.”
His most stunning admission came when he revealed just how dire United’s financial situation was before these measures were implemented.
“The simple answer is the club runs out of money at Christmas if we don’t do those things,” he warned.
The Road Ahead for Manchester United
As United navigates this tumultuous period, Amorim’s position now looks secure for the foreseeable future, but pressure will mount if results don’t improve.
With fan frustration rising, a fractured squad, and financial constraints, the challenges at Old Trafford are far from over.
For now, Ratcliffe has put his full trust in Amorim—but in football, especially at a club as demanding as Manchester United, patience only lasts so long.
So, the question is, Will Amorim prove him right, or will United’s downward spiral continue?
