Coach Amorim: 'MU must return to European competitions'

Before the weekend clash with Nottingham Forest, Coach Ruben Amorim candidly addressed the difficulties Manchester United endures from not participating in European cups this season.

According to the Portuguese coach, playing only one match per week limits squad rotation possibilities, directly affecting the development of young players like Kobbie Mainoo.

Manchester United lost the chance to return to the Champions League after their defeat to Tottenham in last season's Europa League final. Additionally, an early exit from the League Cup further reduced match opportunities for the "Red Devils." Amorim acknowledged that this situation has resulted in fewer appearances for several players, including promising talents Mainoo and striker Joshua Zirkzee.

In a press conference, the Portuguese tactician stated: “This club needs to get back to European competitions for many reasons. With just one game per week, it’s difficult for me to rotate the squad. Imagine Kobbie Mainoo; he needs more playing time to grow, but with the current schedule, I have to take off a regular starter to give him a chance.”

Amorim believes that having more European matches would make it easier to allocate playing time: “When there are more games, you can distribute opportunities, better manage players’ fitness and morale. Right now, we use training sessions to improve our style and prepare for the future when Manchester United returns to European competitions.”

Nevertheless, the 40-year-old coach emphasized that the team’s objective remains unchanged: “We must get back into European cups. Securing a top 4 spot is a tough challenge at the moment, but nothing is impossible. The key is to focus on winning each match.”

Amorim’s remarks accurately reflect Manchester United’s reality this season: a young, talented squad lacking enough playing opportunities to maintain form and gain experience. For players like Mainoo and Zirkzee, returning to European competitions next season is not only a matter of pride but also a crucial condition for the new generation of the "Red Devils" to truly mature.