November 06, (THEWILL) — Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has dismissed criticism from former club legend Cristiano Ronaldo, calling on supporters and observers to concentrate on the club’s future rather than past failings.
The 40-year-old Al-Nassr striker told Piers Morgan in an interview that United were “not on a good path” and cautioned that Amorim would not perform “miracles” at Old Trafford, adding that the club lacked strategic direction.
Amorim, who replaced Erik ten Hag in November 2024, acknowledged Ronaldo’s influence but emphasised ongoing reforms.
“Of course, he has a huge impact i everything he said,” the Portuguese manager said on Thursday.
“What we need to focus on is in the future. We know that we as a club made a lot of mistakes in the past, but we are trying to change that.”
He pointed to structural changes, player development and improved standards across the organisation.
United have climbed to eighth in the English Premier League table, sitting just two points behind second place following a four-match unbeaten streak.
Amorim’s side face Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday in a fixture loaded with history after Spurs defeated United 1-0 in last season’s UEFA Europa League final, denying them UEFA Champions League qualification.
The manager credited better team cohesion and tactical understanding for the upturn in results.
Ronaldo, who won eight trophies during his time at United, insisted the club’s struggles extend beyond managerial appointments.
“You have to work with smart people to create a base for the future,” he said. “Right now, they don’t have a structure.” The forward referenced the Portuguese saying “miracles only happen in Fatima” when discussing Amorim’s chances of success.
Despite the absence of European football this season, Amorim identified advantages in the schedule.
“If you ask me whether I prefer to be here with the Europa League and Champions League football, I might say yes,” he explained.
“But on the other side, you have more time to train and know your players. Arrange everything and prepare with the staff and players.”
The manager insisted United were attempting to extract positives from their current circumstances.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
