Ruben Amorim, Manchester United’s manager, has finally addressed the swirling transfer rumours surrounding captain Bruno Fernandes. Amid growing reports of a lucrative bid from Saudi Arabian giants Al Hilal, Amorim firmly clarified United’s unwavering stance. He emphasized Fernandes’ irreplaceable value to the club, both in leadership and performance, especially during a season riddled with challenges.
Table of contents
Amorim Dismisses Fernandes Exit Chatter
During a press conference ahead of Manchester United’s crucial Europa League clash against Athletic Club, Amorim broke his silence on the speculation. He asserted, “I think it is easy to understand that [transfer speculation], not just because of the numbers but the way he plays. He is a top player and we need top players.”
Clearly, Amorim views Fernandes as an essential asset. “He is a leader, the captain. It is natural that people want Bruno, but we want to keep him. He is one of the top players of the world,” he continued.
Thus, Amorim’s remarks shut down the notion that the Portuguese maestro could be lured away, even if Al Hilal reportedly prepare a record-breaking bid.
United Stay Focused Despite Distractions
Although rumours swirl off the pitch, Amorim keeps his squad focused on their continental ambitions. United enter the second leg against Athletic with a 3-0 cushion. However, Amorim reflected on the first leg’s rocky start. “I had a feeling that they [Athletic] were really intense, but most of the opportunities were a little bit our fault; we lost possession,” he said.
He added, “Sometimes, we have 30 minutes with a lot of problems and we show the players why we had that problem. We watched it quite a few times. We showed them why we had so many problems in the first 30 minutes.”
Consequently, Amorim ensures his players learn from mistakes while staying sharp for the return fixture.
Suffering is Part of the Journey
Amorim maintains a realistic outlook. He stressed the importance of fighting through adversity to earn their place in the final. “It’s everything together. If you look at our team, we cannot say today what is going to happen,” he admitted.
Moreover, he asserted, “We have to face the game as one more game. I feel we have to score to go to the next round. That is how we are going to approach the game. We will have to suffer a little bit to go to the final, and we are ready to suffer.”
With grit and preparation, Amorim motivates his side to endure and succeed.
Improvement Over Results
Despite inconsistent outcomes, Amorim remains optimistic about United’s development. “We are improving the way we play, we are more confident and we are ready to face this challenge,” he stated.
He acknowledged the heightened pressure that comes with the managerial role. “The meaning is that you have to win it. As a manager, it is not like the same as a player, who wants to play and enjoy it. As a manager, you have to win it. If you lose in the final, it will hurt even more, especially in this kind of season.”
Accordingly, he highlighted the weight of responsibility and his relentless pursuit of victory.
Injuries Won’t Affect United’s Approach
Athletic Club will miss key players—Inaki Williams, Nico Williams, and Oihan Sancet—due to injury. Yet, Amorim dismissed the idea that their absence alters United’s approach. “It doesn’t matter. For us, it doesn’t matter. We need to go to the game. It is a final for us and we need to go to it to win the game,” he declared.
Clearly, Amorim demands the same intensity, regardless of the opponent’s circumstances.
Champions League Goal Keeps Team Driven
When asked about the Europa League’s Champions League qualification rule, Amorim responded directly. “I just know the rules. If people want to change the rules, by all means. But these are the rules and the rules are that you win the Europa League, you go to the Champions League, so we will follow the rules.”
He added, “I don’t think a lot about it. I know that the Champions League is for the champions or the best team in the leagues. We are just following the rules.”
His clarity reveals a singular mindset—win the Europa League and let the rest take care of itself.
Reflecting on Past Comments
Earlier in the season, Amorim had criticized the current squad. Now, he addressed those remarks. “I think you have to see the quotes in the moment, so things can change. If you look to the Premier League, since I arrive, we are the worst team since I arrived. At the end of this season, we can be the worst team in Premier League history with a European title.”
He admitted, “This season has been really disappointing for everyone, but nothing is going to change. In that moment, sometimes I have to think a little bit more.”
With time and introspection, Amorim recognizes both the progress and the shortcomings.
Looking ahead, Amorim knows what awaits. He concluded, “The idea of Athletic will not change, but the characteristics of the players will change, and that is important for us to know. It is going to be a strong team with a strong identity.”
Ultimately, Amorim’s message is clear: Manchester United will fight, suffer if needed, and compete with unwavering resolve. And no matter the external noise, Bruno Fernandes remains at the heart of that mission.
FAQs
No, manager Ruben Amorim confirmed that Manchester United have no intention of selling Bruno Fernandes despite Al Hilal’s interest.
Ruben Amorim stated that Fernandes is a world-class player, a leader, and essential to Manchester United’s plans.
Manchester United are focusing on maintaining intensity and learning from first-leg mistakes to secure a spot in the final.
No, Amorim said Manchester United will approach the match with full focus regardless of Athletic Club’s injuries.
Yes, Amorim confirmed that winning the Europa League guarantees Champions League qualification under current rules.
