Amorim admits he’s ‘fighting for his job’ at Man United

Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has admitted that both he and his players are “fighting” for their jobs as the club endures a challenging season.

The Portuguese tactician has struggled to reverse United’s fortunes since replacing Erik ten Hag in November.

Despite their struggles, the club opted against strengthening their attack in the January transfer window, even after loaning out Marcus Rashford and Antony, along with defender Tyrell Malacia.

Rashford’s loan move to Aston Villa was the standout decision of the window, with reports suggesting his deal includes an option for a permanent transfer. However, Amorim refused to discuss the England forward’s exit when speaking to the media on Thursday.

“We are fighting for our jobs until the summer,” Amorim said. “So, I am just focused on these games. Thankfully, Marcus is in Birmingham now with Unai (Emery), so you can take those questions to another coach. We are just focused on our players at the moment.”

United face Ruud van Nistelrooy’s Leicester in the FA Cup fourth round on Friday, and Amorim admitted the club had taken a calculated risk with their transfer strategy, opting instead to invest in youth with the signings of defenders Patrick Dorgu (20) and Ayden Heaven (18).

“I think it is a moment that is hard to turn things around in just a few games,” he said.

“It’s going to be really hard until the end of the season. Then we are taking that risk because we want something different in our team, with different profiles, and that is my area—so it was my decision to do that.”

Amorim emphasised the club’s intent to avoid past mistakes in the transfer market, acknowledging the urgency of their situation but stressing the need for a more strategic approach.

“What I feel is the club is taking its time,” he added. “We know the urgency of the moment, but nobody here wants to repeat the mistakes of the past. We have to improve the players we have and win some games.”

United currently sit 13th in the Premier League, piling pressure on Amorim to deliver results.

“Since day one, with good results or bad results, I have a clear idea of what I want to do, and I take these risks because I believe they will pay off,” he said. “But I’m not naive—this is a sport of results, and we are in a difficult situation.”