Ruben Amorim has emphasised to his Manchester United squad that they hold a “significant responsibility” to turn around a disappointing season by clinching the Europa League title.
The team prepared for their Europa League semi-final second leg against Athletic Bilbao after enduring yet another setback in the Premier League, falling to Brentford in a dramatic match on Sunday.
Amorim’s squad faced a 4-3 defeat, leaving them struggling in 15th position and at risk of finishing the season with their worst standings since being relegated in 1973/74.
United’s winless streak in the league has now stretched to six games, having been down 4-1 against Brentford before late goals from Alejandro Garnacho and Amad Diallo offered a sliver of consolation for the lacklustre visitors.
Amorim has recorded 12 losses in his 24 league fixtures with United, securing just six victories.
Following their impressive 3-0 win in the first leg against Bilbao last Thursday, United are aware that triumph in the Europa League could secure them a place in the Champions League.
“I find it stressful to keep losing games. When we’re in contention for a title, it’s not as stressful,” Amorim stated.
“I truly believe that we are improving our performance and grasping our style of play, even in challenging circumstances.”
“At this moment, we must endure the setbacks. While we are dropping points in the Premier League, our focus remains on the Europa League, which is our primary concern right now.”
To keep his key players fresh for the upcoming Bilbao match at Old Trafford on Thursday, Amorim opted for eight changes at the Gtech Community Stadium.
Notably, Bruno Fernandes and Harry Maguire were both left on the bench, signalling Amorim’s prioritisation of the European competition.
“As a club, we need to acknowledge that we bear a significant obligation to claim the Europa League. It’s crucial for us to assemble a squad capable of competing across various tournaments,” Amorim conveyed.
“Rotating the squad is beneficial for the players. Everyone is getting game time as we prepare for multiple matches, but it isn’t easy.”
“We wish to remain competitive, yet we have faced considerable challenges during these 90 minutes. We must focus on the next match, and then look back to the Premier League.”
“It’s undeniably tough, but we are striving to manage the situation to the best of our ability and we are willing to take risks in certain matches.”
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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