Manchester United head coach, Ruben Amorim has sought to clarify his remarks labeling his team “the worst in the club’s history,” insisting he was directing the criticism at himself rather than his players.
The comments followed a disappointing 3-1 defeat to Brighton at Old Trafford, United’s seventh loss in 15 matches under the Portuguese manager.
Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, Amorim admitted frustration had led to the contentious statement.
“I was talking more about myself than the players,” Amorim explained.
“I said I wasn’t helping my players, and I’ve always avoided blaming them publicly.”
“But sometimes frustration gets the better of me, and I express it poorly. I spoke to the players in the dressing room immediately after the game in similar terms—it was about taking responsibility.”
Amorim also confirmed reports that he addressed the squad right after the Brighton defeat, breaking his usual routine of waiting until the next day for post-match analysis.
“I needed to speak immediately, but maybe it was a mistake. I’m still young, and I sometimes let emotions take over.”
“That frustration carried into the press conference, and I said things I shouldn’t have. But I believe in being honest, both with the players and the fans.”
Old Trafford Struggles
United have lost four of their last five home games, including defeats to Nottingham Forest, Bournemouth, and Brighton.
The team’s tendency to concede early goals has only added to their anxieties at Old Trafford.
“We’re more nervous at home than away. If we concede first, it’s incredibly difficult to calm the team down.”
“Scoring the first goal would change everything, but our focus at the start of games hasn’t been good enough.”
Defender Harry Maguire echoed Amorim’s concerns, highlighting the team’s lapses in concentration:
“The goals we’ve conceded from set pieces and moments of inattention are costing us. These aren’t tactical errors—they’re mental lapses.”
United will look to turn their fortunes around when they host Rangers in a critical Europa League clash on Thursday.
Marcus Rashford Linked with Barcelona Move Amid Struggles
Meanwhile, uncertainty surrounds Marcus Rashford’s future at Manchester United. The forward, frozen out by Amorim since December, has reportedly been the subject of face-to-face talks between his representatives and Barcelona over a potential move.
Sources indicate United are open to loan offers for Rashford, provided the interested club covers a portion of the 27-year-old’s wages.
Barcelona, however, must address financial constraints before formalizing any bid, potentially requiring player sales to make room for Rashford.
Despite interest from Borussia Dortmund, financial hurdles could limit the Bundesliga side’s ability to strike a deal.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta is said to be a fan of Rashford, though doubts remain about whether the club truly needs him, with Raphinha occupying the left-wing role.
Rashford, who last featured for United in a 2-1 victory over Viktoria Plzen on December 12, trained with the squad on Wednesday ahead of the Europa League tie.
What’s Next for United?
Amorim’s team must quickly regroup as they face Rangers on Thursday and Fulham in the Premier League over the weekend.
With tensions high, results over the next week could define the trajectory of their season—and Amorim’s tenure.