Ruben Amorim has responded to criticism from Wayne Rooney following Manchester United’s FA Cup exit, insisting that his position as the club’s head coach at 40 proves he is not naive.
United crashed out of the competition after losing to Fulham on penalties, with Bernd Leno saving spot-kicks from Victor Lindelöf and Joshua Zirkzee. Rooney, working as a pundit, called Amorim naive for stating that the club’s long-term objective is to win the Premier League.
Amorim defended his stance, clarifying that he is not suggesting an immediate title challenge but reaffirming that the club’s ambition remains to return to the top. “Being naive is to think we are going to do it this season or be the best contender next season. I know that at this moment everybody knows everything. I was a pundit when I finished my career. I know it’s really easy,” Amorim said.
He emphasized that winning the league remains the ultimate goal. “Maybe it is not with me. But our goal, as a club, the board, is to win the Premier League like we did in the past with all the great glories and legends of this club. We are in a difficult moment. And I’m not naive, that’s why I’m here, at 40 years old, coaching Manchester United.”
Rooney had questioned the feasibility of Amorim’s claim, saying, “I think it’s a little naive to say they’re looking to win the Premier League because from where they are now, they’re a long way off that.”
United’s elimination came after Bruno Fernandes’ second-half goal canceled out Calvin Bassey’s opener just before the break. However, in the penalty shootout, Leno’s heroics ensured Fulham advanced to the quarter-finals, where they will face Crystal Palace.
Amorim also defended goalkeeper André Onana, who was criticized for time-wasting rather than launching quick attacks late in the game. “It is also frustration for André, he is trying to read the team,” Amorim explained, referencing their midweek victory over Ipswich, where Patrick Dorgu’s first-half red card forced United to play with ten men.
“Our team was so tired. We played the last game with one less player in the second half, and he is using that time to rest a bit for us to go for the second goal.”
Fulham manager Marco Silva praised Leno’s performance, calling him “one of the best in the Premier League.” Meanwhile, United face an injury concern, as Harry Maguire was forced off during the game.
