Amorim Admits Man Utd Are Underachieving

Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has acknowledged that criticism from club legends is a natural consequence of the team’s current performance, admitting they are “underachieving”.

The Red Devils head into Monday’s Premier League clash against Bournemouth aiming for a victory that would see them maintain a place in the top six for two consecutive weeks – a feat they haven’t managed since before the conclusion of the 2023-24 season.

This period of relative stability arrives after a concerning spell last season, highlighted by a heavy 4-0 defeat to Crystal Palace which reportedly put Erik ten Hag’s position at risk prior to the FA Cup final triumph.

While securing a top-six spot would be a positive step under Amorim, it represents a significant departure from the dominance enjoyed during Sir Alex Ferguson’s tenure, when United consistently finished within the league’s top three.

Former United stalwart Paul Scholes recently voiced his concerns on the ‘The Good, The Bad & The Football’ podcast, arguing that Amorim’s tactical approach doesn’t align with the club’s traditional emphasis on wing play. Responding to those criticisms, Amorim stated: “I think it’s normal.

“It’s a fact that, as manager of Manchester United, we are underachieving. We should have more points, especially this season. So, I take that naturally. Sometimes they don’t have all the information and view Manchester United through the lens of their own successful past, always expecting to win. It’s difficult to reconcile that with the club’s current situation.”

Amorim dismissed the idea that the criticism is hindering his work, stating simply, “No, not winning is the issue.” He added, “The problem is I am not doing good enough, that is also a fact and I accept it. For them, the only issue is that Manchester United isn’t winning and isn’t where it’s supposed to be. If you are winning, there are no issues.”

The United boss also addressed concerns about his squad depth, having previously relied on younger players less prepared for the demands of the Premier League. The availability of Noussair Mazraoui, Bryan Mbeumo, and Amad Diallo for the Bournemouth game remains uncertain due to potential Africa Cup of Nations commitments.

Injuries to key defenders Matthijs de Ligt and Harry Maguire could see 20-year-old Leny Yoro and 19-year-old Ayden Heaven feature in the back three, a prospect Amorim acknowledges is not ideal given their limited experience.

However, Amorim’s decision to limit the playing time of promising midfielder Kobbie Mainoo has drawn some criticism. Despite an impressive cameo appearance in the 4-1 victory against Wolves, where he was enthusiastically received by travelling fans, Mainoo is reportedly seeking a loan move to secure more regular first-team football.

Amorim initially blocked a similar move to Napoli last summer and is currently circumspect about a potential January departure. “I had some conversations with him, especially last year, and with other players, but not specifically on this issue,” Amorim explained.

“I will be really pleased if Kobbie comes to talk to me about it. I just want my players to be happy. I understand that every player has their ambitions and that frustration can be detrimental. I won’t state what I would say, but I would be open to a discussion. I am completely open. I have my ideas, which are also clear, and I won’t compromise them if I don’t believe in them. But I am always willing to listen to my players; that’s something I value.”

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