Ruben Amorim expressed his willingness to accept criticism from former Manchester United players, acknowledging that the team’s results have not met expectations. However, he also pointed out that figures like Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt are making their evaluations “without having all the information.”
Amorim has faced scrutiny from various ex-United players turned pundits, including Scholes, Butt, Gary Neville, and Roy Keane.
Scholes, a winner of 11 Premier League titles under Sir Alex Ferguson, has been particularly critical of Amorim.
The former midfielder remarked that Amorim is not “the right man” for the club and doesn’t truly “get the club.”
In defense, Amorim stated that while it’s normal for ex-players to express their opinions, they may not fully grasp the complexities occurring behind the scenes at Old Trafford. He said, “I think it’s natural. As the manager of Manchester United, I do feel we are underachieving. We should have more points, particularly this season, so I take their criticism in stride.”
He added, “They see Manchester United based on the standards they experienced—always winning. It’s difficult for them to watch the club in its current situation.”
Amorim’s first year at the helm has been challenging, with only 14 wins out of 42 Premier League games since he took over in November 2024.
Scholes has criticized the 40-year-old’s tactical approach, particularly his use of a back three instead of a back four and his management of academy graduate Kobbie Mainoo. However, Amorim believes that much of the criticism would subside if the team consistently won matches. “I think the main issue is not winning,” he explained. “Of course, there are various aspects to address, but the core problem is that we aren’t winning. If we were, I could arrive on a horse and play with just two defenders, and everything would be fine.”
“The reality is that I, as the manager, haven’t performed well enough, and I acknowledge that. Ultimately, it boils down to the fact that Manchester United isn’t winning and is not positioned where it should be.”