Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim has admitted that his side are not ready for the demands of European football this season after a nightmare Premier League campaign in 2023/24.
United endured a torrid season last term, finishing a lowly 15th in the Premier League – their worst league finish in the modern era. Under Erik ten Hag, the Red Devils started poorly, and even after Amorim took charge, results were hard to come by as he attempted to impose his philosophy on the squad.
Despite a late push, United fell short of European qualification. They suffered heartbreak in the Europa League final against Tottenham, missing out on a Champions League spot and leaving them without any continental competition for the first time since 2014/15.
Amorim: “We Were Not Prepared to Play in Europe”
Speaking ahead of United’s midweek Carabao Cup clash, Amorim told reporters that missing out on Europe could actually benefit the team:
“We have three games this week and we have quality players, so we need rotation to try to win every match. It happens at other clubs too – not having European football is not unusual.
We were not prepared to play in Europe. That is my feeling. To face strong teams in Europe while also competing in the Premier League – we need more time to develop. The players just need to fight for places, and then everything can change.”
The Portuguese coach stressed that United’s priority is to adapt to his style and rebuild confidence rather than get stretched thin across multiple competitions.
What’s Next for Manchester United?
With no European distractions, Amorim’s men now enter the Carabao Cup earlier than usual, kicking off against League Two side Grimsby Town on Wednesday night. The Mariners are in high spirits, having started their season unbeaten in five matches, but United will see this as the perfect chance to get back to winning ways.
For Amorim, this season is all about resetting, rebuilding, and preparing for a stronger Premier League campaign – with the long-term goal of getting Manchester United back where they belong: in Europe.
