Ruben Amorim Eyes Europa League Trophy After Manchester United's Last 16 Berth

Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim sets sights on Europa League trophy after securing last 16 spot, emphasizing the team's responsibility to fight for winning trophies.

Ruben Amorim, Manchester United's manager, emphasized the importance of targeting the Europa League trophy after his team secured a spot in the last 16 with a 2-0 win at Steaua Bucharest on Thursday. Amorim acknowledged that his tenure at Manchester United had a difficult start, but a recent improvement has helped him settle into his role. Despite becoming the first United manager to lose five of his first 10 games in all competitions since Walter Crickmer in 1932, Amorim expressed optimism about his team's chances in the Europa League.

Tonight was an important win for Ruben's Reds 👊#MUFC || #UEL

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) January 30, 2025

Amorim reflected on his team's performance, saying, “I don’t see a big difference in the way we play, but today we had more time to think and now you can see some movements, the idea is there because we have more time to play and understand the game.” He emphasized the importance of winning trophies, stating, “I think we can go game by game and we can win it. Then you have the responsibility, no matter the context, you are in Manchester United so you must fight for winning trophies.”

⏹️ Job done in Bucharest — well played, lads! 🫡#MUFC || #UEL

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) January 30, 2025

Amorim highlighted the significance of reaching the last 16, saying, “When you get to this stage of any competition, anything is possible and they can prove they can win against anybody.” He also emphasized the benefits of avoiding a two-legged playoff, which was secured by United's third-placed finish in the Europa League first phase. Amorim noted, “That is really important for us, to have time to train, create connection between everyone, the staff, everyone there in training, go to the pitch, know each other in the right environment.”

Amorim discussed the advantages of having more time to prepare for games, saying, “Then we have one week to prepare a game, the beginning of the week you can work your idea and then have time to prepare the game and focus on the opponent. I can understand better my players.” This increased preparation time will allow Amorim to better understand his players and develop a more effective strategy for upcoming games.