Amorim gives reason why Rashford left Man Utd and why he 'struggled'

Ruben Amorim remains confident in his position at Manchester United, insisting he does not fear the sack even if the club’s poor form worsens.

The Portuguese coach believes he retains the full backing of co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, despite United’s alarming slump to 13th place in the Premier League.

Sunday’s 2-0 defeat to Crystal Palace marked Amorim’s seventh loss in 13 league games, leaving his side with a -6 goal difference and no signs of immediate improvement.

When first offered the United job in October, Amorim had preferred to wait until the summer, recognizing the challenges of taking charge mid-season.

However, Ratcliffe’s football department made it clear the position would not be available later, prompting the former Sporting boss to accept the role.

Asked whether United’s hierarchy had acknowledged that performances could deteriorate further under his management, Amorim admitted he had been transparent about the risks.

“It’s actually harder for me to cope with this than the board, because they already knew what might happen under me,” Amorim explained.

“I outlined all the risks, and everything that has happened so far, I told the board beforehand. Their response was clear: ‘We need to start now.’”

Despite the growing discontent among supporters, Amorim remains unshaken, confident that Ratcliffe and his team understand the long-term project.

“I know the environment is really tough right now, especially with so many home defeats.

"But I feel the board’s support—if that’s what you’re asking. I’m not the slightest bit worried about my position. What hurts me the most is simply losing games.”

A significant moment in Amorim’s tenure was his decision to sideline Marcus Rashford for six weeks, leading to the forward’s loan move to Aston Villa in January.

When asked whether Rashford’s potential success under Unai Emery would reflect poorly on him as a coach, Amorim dismissed the idea.

“As a journalist or fan, you can interpret it however you like,” he responded. “The reality is, I couldn’t integrate Marcus into my vision of how we train and play football.”

“Some players thrive under one coach and struggle under another. I hope Rashford and Unai Emery can work well together because he is a very talented player.”

Pressed further on whether Rashford had outright rejected his footballing philosophy, Amorim suggested it was more about an unspoken disconnect.

“It’s not something that’s said directly—it’s something you feel as a coach and as a player. And that’s normal. It happens with many managers.”

Amorim also reaffirmed that the loan departures of Rashford, Tyrell Malacia, and Antony were all his decisions, reinforcing his belief in reshaping the squad on his terms.

“The important thing is, I’m here saying these were my decisions,” he stated. “Tyrell and Antony—those loans were my choices as well.”

As United continue to struggle, Amorim’s ability to navigate this storm will be tested further in the coming weeks.

With his tactical choices under scrutiny and squad decisions proving divisive, the pressure on him to deliver results is only intensifying.