United have continued to suffer in the Premier League, but hope to win the Europa League
The situation at Manchester United continues to smoulder. Since Ruben Amorim took over in mid-November following the departure of Erik ten Hag, the club has been in a state of flux. While in Europe they have found a thread of hope by reaching the Europa League final against Tottenham in Bilbao on Wednesday, in the Premier League, the picture is different. The team has gone eight games without a win and have slipped to 16th place with just 39 points from 37 games. That contrast has generated doubts, internal tensions and many inquisitive looks from outside.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe will not accept the resignation of Ruben Amorim after the end of the season
Despite this backdrop, The Times has reported that Sir Jim Ratcliffe is unwilling to accept Amorim’s resignation this summer. The British businessman, who heads up the sporting side of the business through INEOS, will try to retain the Portuguese coach even if he decides to resign.
Amorim, who had already considered leaving in January, according to ESPN, has not yet communicated any official intention to leave his post. However, his language at press conferences and certain attitudes have fuelled rumours of his discontent and regret after leaving Sporting CP midway through the season.
Should Manchester United stick to Ruben Amorim?
Should Manchester United stick to Ruben Amorim?
If Amorim stays, the board will have to do much more than back him with words. The club need a judicious rebuild. Keeping a coach just because of his European performance without giving him the necessary tools would be a repetition of past mistakes.
Amorim, although questioned for his manner, has shown leadership and courage in pointing out what is not working. You can’t demand results with a broken, uncohesive and mentally shaken squad. If Ratcliffe really believes in him, he must show it with clear decisions: strengthen the midfield and attack, get rid of uncommitted players and bring in profiles that fit his system.
In addition, the coaching staff needs stability. Amorim should have a direct say in transfers, something that has been diffuse at Old Trafford in recent years. The medical and performance area also requires adjustments, with a long injury list that has conditioned everything. Amorim’s tactical formation demands intensity and fresh legs, something this current squad cannot sustain throughout the season.
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From another perspective, there is the emotional drain to consider. If Amorim does not feel confident and does not believe in the project, retaining him by force could lead to another toxic cycle. In that case, the smart thing to do would be to seek an orderly exit. But if there is still faith on both sides, the effort must be reciprocal.
The Portuguese coach has the ability, but he needs structural backing and not just ephemeral applause after a good European match. And above all, he needs time, something that has become a luxury at Manchester United. Ratcliffe’s decision makes sense if it is accompanied by facts and not just rhetoric. Otherwise, nothing will change at Old Trafford. For now, the focus will be on winning the Europa League final.