Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim says his side are still not prepared to compete in Europe and require more time to build a foundation before being able to challenge in the Champions League.
United, who finished 15th in the Premier League last season, missed out on a return to Europe’s top competition after losing the Europa League final to Tottenham Hotspur in May.
“I think we were not prepared to play in Europe, that is my feeling. To have strong games in the Champions League and then play Premier League, we need time to develop as a team,” Amorim said ahead of United’s League Cup second-round tie against Grimsby Town.
United’s start to the new Premier League season has been poor, with a 1-0 home defeat to Arsenal and a 1-1 draw at Fulham. Amorim highlighted his side’s defensive mindset as a key reason for failing to hold onto a lead at Craven Cottage.
“The games are really competitive. We need time to build the base and then, in the future, to move forward. We will reach a moment where we need to have Europe for everybody to play games,” he added.
There was some positive news as Amorim confirmed that defender Noussair Mazraoui, sidelined since pre-season, is close to returning. “Maybe next week he is going to return. We are finishing some drills to make sure he doesn’t have another problem,” said the Portuguese coach.
