Rúben Amorim’s debut season as Manchester United manager came to a disappointing close with a 1–0 defeat against Tottenham Hotspur in the UEFA Europa League final at San Mamés. With that loss, the Red Devils not only missed out on silverware but also failed to secure a spot in European competitions for next season. United ended the Premier League campaign in 16th place—just one spot above Tottenham, who finished 17th. Relegated clubs include Ipswich Town, Leicester City, and Southampton.
Amorim, who took over from Erik ten Hag after leaving Sporting CP, has struggled to bring hope back to Old Trafford. Since November, the team has collected only nine points in the Premier League and was eliminated early in both the FA Cup and EFL Cup. The Europa League final was United’s last chance to salvage an otherwise bleak season.
Following the loss, Amorim addressed the media in a candid tone:
“If the board or the fans believe I’m not the right man for the job, I’ll leave without complaint and without compensation. But I won’t resign. I believe in the work I’m doing.”
The Portuguese manager also acknowledged the disappointment of the fanbase:
“This is not the moment for me to defend myself—that’s not my style. I don’t have anything to offer the fans right now, but what I’m asking for is a little bit of faith.”
The defeat has significant consequences for Manchester United beyond the pitch. Without qualification for the Champions League or any European tournament, the club stands to lose at least €119 million in projected revenue. That financial hit comes at a particularly vulnerable time: United has reported ongoing losses over the past five years. According to the club’s own figures, it would have faced bankruptcy by the end of 2025 had it not implemented a series of budget cuts and cost-saving measures earlier in the year.
Rúben Amorim arrived in Manchester with high expectations, but his first season has left more questions than answers. With the club now facing another summer of uncertainty, all eyes will be on the boardroom and the transfer market. Whether Amorim remains at the helm or not, one thing is clear—Manchester United needs a major rebuild, both on and off the field.
