Manchester United finished in 15th place under Amorim this season, their lowest league position since 1973/74
Ruben Amorim gave a heartfelt apology to Manchester United fans and promised that the club’s “good days are coming” after the match against Aston Villa at Old Trafford on Final Day. With the 2-0 win the club concluded a dismal Premier League campaign in which they finished 15th, their lowest position since 1973/74.
“I want to apologise for this season,” Amorim said, standing on the Old Trafford turf. “I also want to say thank you – we are very grateful for your support during the season. I know it was really hard to support us in many games.
“But now we have to make a choice. We either stay stuck in the past – because this season is in the past, it’s over – or we stick together and move forward.”
Amorim’s tenure, which began in November following Erik ten Hag’s departure, has been marked by inconsistency and underperformance. The team managed only six wins in 26 league matches and suffered a 1-0 defeat to Tottenham in the Europa League final, missing out on European competition for the first time since the 2013/14 season.
The manager has come under close scrutiny not just for his team’s performance, but also for his candid assessments, including a remark labelling the squad as “maybe the worst in the history of Manchester United” after a loss to Brighton. Amorim later clarified that the comment was more directed at himself rather than the players.
Looking ahead, the Portuguese provided a message of hope to fans: “Six months ago, after two victories and one draw in my first three games, I said to you: ‘The storm is coming’.
“Today, after this disastrous season, I want to tell you: ‘The good days are coming’. If there is one club in the world that has proved in the past it can overcome any situation, any disaster, it is our club. It is Manchester United Football Club.
There will be, without question, significant changes at Old Trafford by next season. Already, three players were confirmed on Sunday to be leaving the club: Christian Eriksen, Victor Lindelof and Johnny Evans. Further movements will take place when the summer window opens as the club prepare a considerable squad overhaul. Reports are that several notable players, including Alejandro Garnacho, are very likely to exit Old Trafford.
However, speaking to the players on Sunday, Amorim said: “Now I want to say sorry to my players. Sometimes I was not fair, but I always tried to be honest with you guys. Thank you very much, see you next season.”
