Amorim gives rallying cry to 'end season on high' in Europa League final

Rúben Amorim cut a frustrated but defiant figure after Manchester United’s 1-0 defeat to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge — the club’s 18th league loss of the season and an eighth consecutive match without a win in the Premier League.

Speaking in his post-match press conference, Amorim acknowledged the result was not good enough but defended his side’s performance, insisting they created enough to take something from the game.

“We had control in moments, we created chances — but once again, we didn’t take them,” Amorim said.

“In football, you don’t get points for playing well in phases. You get points for scoring goals and defending your box. Tonight, we didn’t do either.”

The only goal of the match came in the 71st minute through Chelsea’s Marc Cucurella, who headed in from a set-piece — a scenario that has repeatedly exposed United’s defensive fragility this season.

Amorim admitted his side's set-piece defending remains a major issue, despite regular work on the training ground.

“It’s about focus and aggression. You can do the drills, but if we don’t want to win the ball, we’ll concede,” he added.

Amorim also brushed off growing speculation about his job security ahead of next week’s Europa League final against Tottenham in Bilbao, stating:

“I know the expectations. We’re not where we want to be, but I believe in this group and in what we’re building. We have one more game to end the season on a high.”

The manager’s comments come amid increasing pressure from fans and pundits, who have questioned his tactical decisions and squad management. With Champions League qualification hanging on the outcome of the Europa League final, Amorim's immediate future could hinge on that result.

Despite the defeat, Amorim praised individual performances — including Bruno Fernandes and youngster Harry Amass — and reiterated that United’s long-term project under INEOS ownership would take time.

“This is Manchester United. The standards are high. And they should be. We need to improve — and we will.”