Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has expressed concern that constant criticism from the English press is influencing his players.
He admits it has become a major obstacle to rebuilding confidence within the team.
Following a string of poor results, including last weekend’s 3-1 loss to Brentford, Amorim has come under intense criticism from pundits such as Gary Neville, Wayne Rooney, and Jamie Carragher.
But while he insists he is unfazed by the media attacks, the Portuguese coach fears his players are beginning to internalize the negative narratives.
“My biggest problem Is my players believing you guys”
Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Amorim said his greatest challenge isn’t the speculation about his job, but the effect media criticism has on his squad.
“I’m not concerned about getting sacked, that’s the board’s decision,” he said. “My biggest problem is my players believing you guys when you say the biggest problem is the system. We need to play the same way, win or lose.”
Amorim defended his tactical approach, insisting that Manchester United’s 3-4-3 formation has been unfairly portrayed as rigid.
“There is no back three all the time, we’ve played 4-4-2 and other variations. The issue is we’re not good with the ball and soft without it,” he explained. “The media cannot dictate what I am going to do.”
‘English media are polite compared to Portugal’
The United boss also downplayed the intensity of criticism in England, saying it pales in comparison to what he endured in Portugal.
“My family loves living in England, you have no idea what abuse is compared to my country,” Amorim said. “You are so polite when we are losing.”
Despite the mounting pressure, Amorim remains optimistic that his side can turn things around when they face newly promoted Sunderland this weekend.
“Football changes fast,” he said. “One win can bring hope again. Tomorrow, we just have to perform.”
