Ruben Amorim has faced fierce criticism after labeling his Manchester United side as “maybe the worst” in the club’s 147-year history. His remarks came after a 3-1 home defeat to Brighton, marking United’s fourth loss in five Premier League games at Old Trafford.
Currently sitting 13th in the Premier League standings, United are nearer to the relegation zone than the Champions League spots, with just 11 points in 11 matches since Amorim succeeded Erik ten Hag in November.
“In the past 10 Premier League games, we’ve won only two,” Amorim lamented after the Brighton defeat. “Imagine how this feels for a Manchester United fan—or for me.
“We brought in a new coach who is losing more than the previous one. I am fully aware of that. We might be the worst team in Manchester United’s history. I know you [the media] want headlines, so here’s one. We need to acknowledge this and change it.”
While Amorim’s statement was bold, historical records show some perspective. Only 13 United teams have had a lower points tally at this stage of the season, and the club has been relegated five times, most recently in 1974.
Amorim admitted the challenges of implementing change mid-season. “I knew it would be hard to introduce a new philosophy in this period,” he said. “When you lose and fail to win three consecutive games, it becomes even harder.
“Everyone is underperforming. We need to accept that—it’s unacceptable to lose so many games. Opponents are beating us in many aspects. Right now, we’re inconsistent, and I’m not doing enough to help my players.
“We’re in a tough situation, setting negative records, losing home and league matches. I still believe we can succeed, but I’m not naive. We need to survive this moment. I won’t change my approach, no matter what.”
However, Amorim’s candor has drawn backlash from pundits. Liverpool legend Steve Nicol criticized his comments on ESPN, saying, “You can’t say that. I’m shaking my head. I don’t know what reaction he expects from his players. Sometimes, you just need to lie.”
Former MLS star Alejandro Moreno also weighed in, stating, “It’s not helpful. The players already know they’re struggling. They don’t need their manager to broadcast it to the world.
“The one person who can’t lose faith in the players is the manager. If he does, everything else collapses. Sometimes, you have to repackage the truth and present a new reality.”
Manchester United will look to bounce back when they face Rangers in a Europa League clash on Thursday night.