Amorim responds to passionate speech by Man Utd owner

Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s recent comments about Manchester United’s squad quality have sparked significant discussion within the club, the media, and among the fanbase. In an in-depth interview with the BBC, the INEOS CEO was candid about his assessment of the team, stating that some players do not possess the necessary level to compete at the highest standard.

He described United as a club in transition, struggling to reclaim its former glory and still adapting to the changes being implemented under new leadership. Ratcliffe’s statements have drawn mixed reactions, with some seeing them as an attempt to demand higher standards, while others view them as potentially demotivating for a squad already under immense pressure.

The comments did not go unnoticed by Manchester United manager Rúben Amorim, who was inevitably asked about them during Wednesday’s pre-match press conference ahead of United’s Europa League second-leg clash with Real Sociedad. Amorim, who has been working tirelessly to impose his playing philosophy and instill discipline in the squad, addressed the situation with characteristic honesty.

"If we are being honest, I think everyone is underperforming at the moment, including myself," the Portuguese coach admitted, offering a level of self-criticism that echoed Ratcliffe’s tough assessment. He refused to shy away from the reality of United’s inconsistent season, pointing out that issues extend across all areas of the team. "We are talking about players like Casemiro, who has won everything there is to win in football. But past achievements don’t count when you step onto the pitch. Every player in this squad must do more. We cannot afford to hide behind past successes we have to prove ourselves every single game."

Amorim’s words reflected his growing frustration with United’s inconsistent form but also demonstrated his determination to change the team’s trajectory. His response was not one of defensiveness but of accountability, a mindset he has been trying to instill since his arrival at Old Trafford. The manager is aware that the expectations at a club like Manchester United are relentless and that every match is scrutinized intensely. He also understands that progress cannot happen overnight, particularly in a season filled with setbacks and fluctuations in performance.

Despite the challenges, Amorim made it clear that he values his relationship with Ratcliffe and does not see the CEO’s comments as an attack but rather as motivation. "The focus is on changing his opinion and everyone else’s," he stated. "Our relationship has been good from day one. I think we are both very direct, and in that sense, we are quite similar. I have always felt the support of the board and especially from Sir Jim. I can’t share the details of our conversations, but they are clear."

As United prepares for their crucial Europa League fixture against Real Sociedad, Ratcliffe’s words will undoubtedly serve as a backdrop to the match. With a place in the quarter-finals at stake, the team has an opportunity to respond on the pitch. The first leg in Spain ended in a 1-1 draw, a result that left the tie finely balanced. Joshua Zirkzee’s goal had given United the lead, but Real Sociedad managed to equalize through a penalty converted by Mikel Oyarzabal, ensuring the second leg at Old Trafford would be decisive.

Amorim and his players recognize the importance of this match, not just in terms of advancing in the Europa League but also in demonstrating resilience amid growing scrutiny. The competition represents one of the few remaining chances for United to claim silverware this season, and failure to progress would intensify criticism from both the media and supporters. The pressure is mounting, and United must deliver a performance worthy of their European ambitions.

Tactically, Amorim is expected to take a more aggressive approach, aiming to take control of the game early to avoid another cagey encounter. With key attacking players such as Marcus Rashford, Bruno Fernandes, and Zirkzee, United has the offensive quality to break through Sociedad’s defensive structure. However, the Spanish side has shown their ability to frustrate opponents with disciplined defending and quick counterattacks, meaning United will need to maintain both patience and precision in their approach.

Beyond the tactics and team selection, Thursday night’s match is about more than just qualification it is about proving a point. Amorim has consistently emphasized that results must speak louder than words, and this is precisely the type of occasion where his team must show character. A strong performance and a convincing victory could shift the narrative surrounding the club, demonstrating that the squad is capable of responding to criticism with action.

On the other hand, a failure to advance would fuel further doubts about United’s direction under Amorim and intensify questions about the squad’s mentality. Ratcliffe’s comments, whether intended as motivation or as an honest critique, have set the stage for a response. Now, it is up to United’s players to prove their worth and show that they belong at the level expected of them.

As the countdown to kickoff continues, all eyes will be on Old Trafford. This is more than just a Europa League knockout tie it is a defining moment in Manchester United’s season.