Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim admitted on Wednesday that not even a Europa League title would be enough to redeem what has been a dismal season for the club.
The Premier League side faces Athletic Bilbao in the first leg of the semi-final on Thursday in Spain, with the final also set to take place at San Mames. Despite the stakes, Amorim was clear that lifting the trophy wouldn’t erase the disappointment of United’s current domestic form.
“This season can’t be saved,” Amorim said at a press conference. “But winning the Europa League and qualifying for the Champions League could still be significant. It might change a lot for the club moving into the summer.”
Currently languishing in 14th place with just 39 points and four games remaining, United’s only realistic route to Champions League qualification is by winning the Europa League, the tournament they last won under Jose Mourinho in 2017.
Midfielder Manuel Ugarte echoed Amorim’s sentiments: “This won’t save our season, but United’s legacy is built on trophies. We’re fully focused on tomorrow’s game and returning to the Champions League.”
Since replacing Erik ten Hag in November, Amorim has struggled to make a domestic impact. However, United’s European campaign has offered a rare bright spot.
“Winning the Europa League won’t fix our deeper problems,” Amorim added. “It would bring Champions League football and extra funds, but real change will take time—through consistency, smart recruitment, and strengthening the academy.”
Their opponents, Bilbao, have additional motivation, with a chance to reach a European final on home turf. Amorim praised the Spanish side’s intensity and defensive solidity, calling winger Nico Williams a “special player.”
In team news, Amad Diallo and Matthijs de Ligt are back in training and could be included in the squad, though Amorim confirmed they would not start.
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