Top News

Former Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has extended an apology to the club’s fans while offering a candid reflection on his challenging time at Old Trafford.

Amorim was relieved of his duties in January after a highly turbulent 14-month spell in charge of the Red Devils. Appointed amid high expectations following a successful period with Sporting CP in Portugal, Amorim struggled to replicate that success in England. Under his leadership, United endured one of their worst domestic seasons, finishing 15th in the Premier League and losing to Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League final.

Despite the difficulties, the club showed faith in Amorim during the following summer transfer window. The beginning of the 2025/26 campaign offered some optimism, but the team never looked entirely settled or convincing under his management.

As the January transfer window approached, tensions reportedly grew between Amorim and the club’s hierarchy, particularly with director of football Jason Wilcox. Sources suggested that disagreements revolved around Amorim’s tactical rigidity and his preferred transfer targets.

Following a 1-1 draw against Leeds United, Amorim was dismissed after he appeared to criticise the club’s senior management during his post-match press conference.

Michael Carrick was subsequently appointed as interim head coach and later made permanent in May after guiding United to a third-place finish and securing qualification for the UEFA Champions League.

Amorim, meanwhile, was appointed as AC Milan’s new head coach last month, succeeding Massimiliano Allegri. During his official unveiling by the Italian giants on Wednesday, Amorim took the opportunity to apologise to United fans for not saying a proper goodbye and admitted to making mistakes during his tenure.

Amorim stated, “The only thing I can say is that I learned a lot and I made some mistakes. I didn’t have the opportunity – and I’m sorry for that – to say something to the Manchester United fans at the time.”

He added, “I’m really proud to have been their coach for a year.”

Speaking about his new challenge, Amorim said, “It’s an honour to be here at AC Milan. I’m very happy. I can sense how much people here care about the club. I love Milanello — the place has history, it’s peaceful. Some say it’s old, but I like that kind of old-school feeling. Everything you need is here. I love the staff and already feel at home.”

“I have followed Milan since I was young, so this is personal for me. It’s a tough challenge, but I have the same belief I had at Sporting — only now, I’m even hungrier,” he continued. “Maybe because of my last experience, I’m extremely motivated for success. I believe in myself and, above all, in the club.”

“I know Serie A is a demanding league, and you need a deep understanding of Italian football. I learn quickly, and I’ll do my best to adapt.”

Just last week, Amorim hinted that managing Manchester United might have been a step too ambitious for him at that stage of his career.