Amorim says Ratcliffe has to be made to 'change' his view on Man Utd players

Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim insists it is up to him and his players to "change" Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s opinion of the team following the billionaire’s recent critical remarks.

Ratcliffe, 72, stated in an interview with BBC Sport that some members of United’s squad were "not good enough" and "overpaid," though he refrained from naming specific players.

However, he did highlight the signings of André Onana, Rasmus Højlund, Casemiro, Antony, and Jadon Sancho as costly deals that Ineos "inherited" and are still financially responsible for.

When asked about Ratcliffe’s comments, Amorim acknowledged that the team has underperformed this season but remained determined to change perceptions.

"If we are being honest, right now, everyone – myself included – is underperforming this season," Amorim admitted.

"You’re talking about players like Casemiro, who has won everything. We know these players can perform much better. Sir Jim was honest about that. Our job is to change his mind and everyone else's."

Despite the scrutiny, Amorim emphasized that his relationship with the United board remains strong, with Ratcliffe describing him as an "outstanding young manager."

"I think we are very direct and honest with each other, and we are quite similar in that way," Amorim said ahead of United’s Europa League clash with Real Sociedad. "I have always felt the support of the board, especially Sir Jim."

In a wide-ranging interview, Ratcliffe spoke about the financial difficulties Ineos has faced since its investment in Manchester United. He acknowledged supporters' frustrations, particularly in light of recent protests before United’s match against Arsenal but emphasized that meaningful change takes time.

"It's not a light switch," Ratcliffe said. "For example, if you look at the players we are 'buying' this summer—players we didn't actually sign—we are effectively purchasing Antony, Casemiro, André Onana, Rasmus Højlund, and Jadon Sancho.

"These are all commitments from the past, but whether we like it or not, we have inherited these deals and have to manage them. For Sancho, who now plays for Chelsea while we pay half his wages, we are still paying £17 million for him this summer."

Ratcliffe admitted that in some cases, the club had overspent on players who have not delivered.

"Some are not good enough, some are probably overpaid," he conceded. "But for us to build a squad that we are fully responsible for and accountable for will take time."

As United continues its rebuilding process, Amorim and his squad will be aiming to prove that they can meet the expectations set by the new ownership.