After Manchester United's hopes of qualifying for the Champions League were ended by Tottenham in the Europa League final, Ruben Amorim had a firm message for fans and the board
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Ruben Amorim speaking in his press conference as Manchester United manager
Ruben Amorim made his position at Manchester United clear
(Image: YouTube/TNT Sports)
In a succinct five-word message that will please Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim made it clear that he will not turn his back on Old Trafford.
In the penultimate game of an arduous first six months as manager of the Red Devils, United's hopes of Champions League qualification were dashed by a 1-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League final. Despite insisting his squad were the superior side during the clash, they couldn't respond to Brennan Johnson's goal just before half-time.
With the absence of European football next season, Amorim must grapple with the reality that he has overseen United's bleakest season in recent history. Nevertheless, the former Sporting Lisbon chief is determined to turn the ship around at Old Trafford.
His unwavering stance was made clear in a direct five-word message after the game. While stating he would not argue with the United board if they decided to relieve him of his services, he insisted: "But I will not quit."
In full, during his post-match interview, he said: "If the board and fans decide I'm not the right guy I will leave tomorrow without any compensation. But I will not quit."
This will come as a comfort to minority owner Ratcliffe and the rest of the board at United, as Amorim's resignation would put them in an awkward position. They still have faith that he is the best person for the job, with reports from the Times claiming Amorim's position would remain safe regardless of the outcome.
Amid rumours that Amorim has previously contemplated resigning from his position, it's been reported that Ratcliffe would make every effort to dissuade him if he handed in his resignation. Despite having his detractors, United's boss has a supporter in Ratcliffe and his team.
A dejected looking Ruben Amorim manager / head coach of Manchester United walks past the trophy after the UEFA Europa League Final 2025 between Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United at at Estadio de San Mames on May 21, 2025 in Bilbao, Spain
Amorim did not hide his disappointment after the match
The Ineos chief publicly backed the United manager earlier this year during an interview with The Times. The 72-year-old said: "I really, really like Ruben. He's a very thoughtful guy.
"Every time I go to the training ground, I speak to Ruben. I sit down and have a cup of coffee with him and tell him where it's going wrong, and he tells me to f*** off! I like him."
Ratcliffe added: "I think we have a really good connection. We are both a little bit blunt and honest in conversations. He really likes the club, he's like a fan."
Ruben Amorim, Manager of Manchester United, embraces Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Co-owner of Manchester United following the UEFA Europa League Final 2025 between Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United at Estadio de San Mames on May 21, 2025 in Bilbao, Spain
Sir Jim Ratcliffe maintains his belief in Ruben Amorim
After a disappointing performance in Bilbao, Amorim stood by his team, insisting they played the better football. He said: "We have to deal with this loss. I think it's clear we were the better team but we could not score.
"We didn't perform perfectly today but we were the better team today. There were days when we were really poor but today was not one of those days."
United face the risk of finishing just a single place above the relegation zone. Defeat to Champions League chasing Aston Villa, coupled with Tottenham securing at least a point against Brighton & Hove Albion, would see United drop down to 17th.