Amorim Believes Europa League Victory Could Shape Manchester United’s Future

While clinching the Europa League title may not fully salvage Manchester United’s season, it could prove pivotal for the club’s immediate future, both on and off the field, according to manager Ruben Amorim in anticipation of Thursday’s semi-final showdown against Athletic Bilbao.

Currently languishing in 14th place in the Premier League with 39 points, following a staggering 15 defeats this season, Amorim posits that triumph in Europe could provide a much-needed boost to their underwhelming campaign and their ongoing reconstruction efforts.

“Everyone knows that the match against Bilbao is crucial for our season,” Amorim remarked to the media on Wednesday.

“We understand that while nothing can ultimately save our season, winning a trophy and qualifying for the Champions League would be monumental.”

“Securing those matches next year has the potential to significantly alter our club’s trajectory, even during the upcoming summer.”

Despite viewing the Europa League as a possible catalyst for change, Amorim emphasised that reaching the Champions League would not resolve all of United’s challenges.

“It could transform our summer and the next season,” he stated. “However, we have a multitude of issues to address within the club. Whether we qualify for the Champions League or not, we will persevere.”

When questioned about the disparity between United’s strong performances in Europe and their struggles in the Premier League, Amorim admitted he had few answers, but highlighted the team’s goal-scoring difficulties.

“I can’t pinpoint why we excel in the Europa League,” Amorim confessed. “While we’ve had matches where we simply didn’t create any goal-scoring opportunities, that’s not the case in our most recent game.” He referred to Sunday’s 1-1 draw with Bournemouth.

“We’re generating chances, yet failing to convert them into goals. Sometimes, there’s no clear explanation for that, and I don’t have a simple answer.”

“We’re far from a consistently performing team, and our significant lack of goals has cost us dearly this season.”

In the midst of the discussion surrounding whether it’s just for a club with lacklustre domestic form to secure a Champions League spot via the Europa League, Amorim stressed that United must seize the opportunity, regardless of any controversy.

“Those are the rules. Some might argue it’s not fair since ideally, the best teams should be in the Champions League,” he said.

“However, I believe it’s intended to enhance the value of this competition. If the chance is there, we should strive to achieve it.”

Be sure to check out the match preview for the Athletic Club vs Manchester United.