Ruben Amorim Set to Treat Remaining Manchester United Fixtures as Final Auditions for Europa League

The players of Manchester United have three remaining Premier League matches to impress and secure a place in the starting eleven for the Europa League final, but manager Ruben Amorim has emphasised the need to carefully manage the squad to prevent injuries.

United made it to the Europa League final after defeating Athletic Bilbao on Thursday, setting up a clash against Tottenham Hotspur, which offers the Old Trafford club one last chance to secure qualification for the Champions League.

Currently sitting 15th in the Premier League, Amorim’s team will face West Ham United on Sunday, and with no realistic chance of finishing in the top half, the Portuguese manager stated that training sessions will be less intense following a demanding season.

“We can’t hold back in the Premier League, but it’s perhaps beneficial as there won’t be extensive training sessions. The players will be fighting for their positions in the final through these matches,” Amorim told the media.

“In the match against Brentford (which ended in a 4-3 defeat), I sensed that some players were already focused on the upcoming game (the second leg against Athletic Bilbao), leading to mistakes. We need to manage that situation.”

“However, it’s also crucial to recognise that we are Manchester United, and winning games is essential even in the Premier League. Each match serves as a chance to improve, particularly as we prepare for the final and our future.”

West Ham currently sits in 17th and could move a point ahead of United with a win on Sunday, especially if Amarim chooses to rest key players again.

Amorim conceded that his squad could have performed better in the league and acknowledged the validity of the criticism they have received, insisting that he will make decisions in the best interests of the club.

“I recognise the criticism is justified, but we must be astute in this moment. It requires risk-taking, even if it means facing backlash,” he explained.

“Ultimately, I must consider what’s best for the club, not just what suits me. I’ve decided to prioritise the well-being of our players, as winning the final is crucial for us.”

Amorim confirmed that Bruno Fernandes has no injury worries, although Harry Maguire’s availability remains uncertain.