Amorim Responds to Rooney’s Criticism, Insists Man United’s Goal is the Premier League Title
Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim remains firm on his ambition to win the Premier League, despite former United forward Wayne Rooney calling it “naive” given the club’s current struggles.
United, who last won the league in 2013 under Alex Ferguson, are currently 14th in the table and were recently knocked out of the FA Cup after a penalty shootout defeat to Fulham.
Amorim, who took charge in November, acknowledged the team’s difficulties but insisted that their long-term goal remains unchanged.
“I know we’re losing games, but the objective is still to win the Premier League again. I don’t know how long it will take, but we have a goal and will keep moving forward,” Amorim told the BBC after Sunday’s defeat.
Rooney, a five-time Premier League winner with United, questioned Amorim’s ambitions, suggesting the team was far from being a title contender.
“I think it’s a bit naive to say they’re aiming to win the Premier League because, from where they are now, they’re a long way off,” Rooney said on BBC’s Match of the Day.
“He’s talking about winning the league, but how can they even compete? Right now, their priority should be climbing the table first.”
When asked about Rooney’s remarks, Amorim defended his stance, clarifying that while a title challenge may not happen immediately, it remains the club’s ultimate objective.
“That is the goal. It would be naive to think we can do it this season or even be the top contender next season. But as a club, our aim is to win the Premier League again, just like we did in the past with all the legends of this club,” Amorim said in his post-match press conference.
“We are going through a tough period, and I’m not naive about that. That’s exactly why I’m here, coaching Manchester United at 40 years old.”
United will now turn their focus to the Europa League, where they face Real Sociedad in the first leg of their round of 16 tie on Wednesday.
