Manchester United manager Rúben Amorim has declared that securing a place in next season’s Champions League is more vital than lifting the Europa League trophy, ahead of the final clash with Tottenham in Bilbao on May 21.
Victory would not only give Amorim his first silverware as United boss but also grant the club a lifeline by guaranteeing entry into the lucrative Champions League group stage which will be a financial boost worth an estimated £70 million ($93 million).
“For me, the Champions League is more important,” Amorim said in Wednesday’s press conference. “Not just for the title, but for how it helps us rebuild. United are supposed to be in the Champions League. Europa League is not enough here.”
Both United and Spurs are floundering near the bottom of the Premier League table, and defeat would mean missing out on European competition entirely next season.
Since taking over in November, Amorim has managed just six wins in 25 league matches and has not shied away from harsh assessments, at one point calling this United side the worst in club history. However, he dismissed talk of stepping down.
“I’m far from quitting. I understand the team’s problems and have a clear plan. But we need to perform or the club will make changes.”
Amorim also confirmed he will personally help cover travel costs for the families of his backroom staff attending the final, amid widespread cost-cutting at the club under new part-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, which includes hundreds of job cuts.
“This season has been tough with results, staff changes, and overall mood,” Amorim added. “But Europa League nights bring a different energy. You can feel the excitement.”
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