Ruben Amorim: No regrets over Man Utd appointment, but timing not ideal

Amorim, who succeeded Erik ten Hag in November, has faced significant challenges during his tenure at Old Trafford. The 40-year-old has overseen only six victories in the Premier League and is on course to guide United to their lowest league finish since 1990.

During a press conference on Friday, Amorim reflected on the difficult start to his tenure, particularly during a period of poor form in December. He admitted that, in hindsight, it may have been beneficial to delay his appointment until the summer. However, after seeing some improvement in results and securing a spot in the Europa League semifinals, Amorim expressed satisfaction with his decision to take the job mid-season.

"I have no regrets," Amorim stated when asked about his decision to join United. "Not at this moment. If you had asked me four months ago, with all the challenges we were facing, I might have felt that perhaps I should have waited to start at the beginning of the season. But today, I believe that this experience will ultimately benefit us in the future."

The manager acknowledged that the team had endured a challenging period, marked by frustration and setbacks, but he emphasized that such adversity could prove valuable in the long run.

"We are suffering a lot here, there is a lot of frustration, but I feel that this period, maybe because we are nearing the end of the season, is the most important time. We are using this experience to better prepare for the years ahead. So, no regrets. I believe this club is one of the best, it’s the pinnacle for any coach, and I have no regrets whatsoever."

With only five matches remaining, United still faces the possibility of finishing 17th this season—just one position above the relegation zone. A finish at this low point would represent their worst league standing since their relegation to the second tier in 1974.

Amorim also admitted that his decision to allow key players such as Marcus Rashford, Antony, and Tyrell Malacia to depart during the January transfer window was a risk, but he is confident that these changes will lay the foundation for future success.

"We are lacking a lot of things in the team," he explained. "This situation is not unique to Manchester United—many big clubs have faced similar struggles. We've seen this with clubs like Milan in the past. When you join a club in a difficult context, it is very challenging. I understand that when we lost players like Rashford and Antony in January without bringing in replacements, it was a risk. But there are more important factors at play than simply scoring a few more goals this season."

Amorim emphasized that the current sacrifices made by the club would ultimately benefit United in the long term, as they look to rebuild and strengthen the squad.

"We are undertaking something more significant. The short-term pain may hurt the squad now, but it will help the club in the future. I believe we are on the right path."