Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim has surprisingly admitted that he isn’t prioritizing this season’s Europa League despite the competition being the club’s best chance for success after their FA Cup exit and struggles in the Premier League.
With the Europa League offering a route to Champions League qualification, Amorim acknowledged the importance of the tournament but revealed he is focused on long-term goals rather than immediate triumphs.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Amorim explained, “People are looking at the Europa League as a unique competition that we can win… but to tell you the truth, I think we have bigger things to think about.”
He emphasized that the project he is working on at Manchester United is more important than winning a trophy in the short term, adding that the goal is to build something lasting.
Amorim’s comments came after United’s disappointing FA Cup exit to Fulham, and while many saw the Europa League as a vital target, he reiterated his belief in the importance of building a sustainable future for the club.
This longer-term vision includes his ambitious goal of winning the Premier League, which many, including Wayne Rooney, have criticized as “naive.” Despite this, Amorim stood firm, saying, “In the darkest moment, we have to have a light and the path – and that is clear here.”
Interestingly, Amorim also expressed uncertainty about his future at United, despite having a contract until 2027. He noted, “I don’t know if I’m going to be here,” acknowledging the risks of the job, including the possibility of change if results don’t improve.
He also highlighted that the club is taking difficult but necessary steps to secure success in the future, even if it comes at the expense of immediate results.
With a tough last-16 tie against Real Sociedad in the Europa League, Amorim’s decision to prioritize long-term goals over short-term success will be tested in the coming weeks.