In a stark and emotional assessment of his team’s current struggles, Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim labeled his squad the “worst team” in the club’s history following yet another disappointing defeat, this time a 3-1 loss to Brighton at Old Trafford.
The defeat marked United’s 10th loss of a troubling season, which has seen the club tumble to 13th place in the Premier League standings. Since taking over from Erik ten Hag in November, Amorim has faced an uphill battle, and his frustrations were evident during his post-match press conference on Sunday.
“Think about how this feels as a Manchester United fan. Think about how this feels for me,” Amorim said. “We are getting a new coach who is losing more than the previous coach. I know this for certain. I am not going to change, regardless. I feel that we can make it, but we have to get through this difficult period.”
Amorim’s blunt comments highlighted the gravity of the situation. “We are being the worst team, perhaps, in Manchester United history. I know you crave headlines, but I am telling you because we must be conscious of that and to change that,” he added, acknowledging the team’s dire performance but vowing not to deviate from his tactical approach.
While his words may seem like an exaggeration, the facts don’t lie. Under Amorim’s leadership, United has accumulated just 11 points from a possible 33 in the league, a record that indicates they are on track for their worst-ever Premier League finish. Last season, United’s lowest position was eighth. This season, however, they are closer to the relegation zone than to the top of the table, with the club’s once-untouchable stature in the league now in question. For context, United has not been relegated since 1974.
Despite Amorim’s efforts to instill a new system and usher in a period of success, the team has struggled with consistency, offering glimpses of potential but failing to build on them. For the fans, it’s been a source of frustration. United has delivered impressive performances, such as their 2-1 win over local rivals Manchester City and a 2-2 draw with league leaders Liverpool, as well as a penalty win over Arsenal in the FA Cup. However, these bright spots have been offset by heavy losses to teams like Bournemouth, Wolves, and Newcastle.
Amorim has maintained that he will not compromise his vision, even if it means further short-term pain. “I’m not going to change the way I see the game, I’m clear about that. The players are going to suffer, the fans are going to suffer, I’m sorry,” he stated.
The road ahead remains uncertain, but history offers a faint glimmer of hope. The last time United lost 10 of their first 22 league games was in the 1989-90 season. That year, a young Alex Ferguson was at the helm, and under his leadership, the club went on to win 13 league titles.
For now, Amorim and his squad are looking to salvage the season. Their upcoming Europa League match against Rangers on Thursday offers a chance for redemption, with a Premier League fixture against Fulham following on Sunday. However, if United is to turn things around, they will need to find a way to break their cycle of inconsistency and rediscover the form that has made them one of England’s most storied clubs.
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