Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim stated on Thursday that his players cannot “hide” following a disappointing season that took another hit when they were booed off the pitch after a friendly loss in Malaysia.
United ended the Premier League campaign in 15th place without a trophy, and promptly flew out on Sunday for high-profile friendlies in Kuala Lumpur and Hong Kong.
However, the trip offered no relief, as the team suffered a 1-0 defeat to a Southeast Asian XI on Wednesday in Malaysia.
Boos echoed through the stadium as United’s players left the field, and they now prepare to face Hong Kong’s representative team in another friendly on Friday.
Amorim addressed the difficult situation, acknowledging the strain of the season and the reaction from fans. He admitted the tour was “not easy to face the fans around the world,” and that although the team wanted to “give something to the fans,” there was little time for adaptation or connection with supporters. Still, he emphasized the importance of confronting the reality, stating “we cannot hide.”
Having replaced Erik ten Hag mid-season, Amorim failed to turn things around and noted that the team, composed of first-team players and youngsters, was “not really focused” during Wednesday’s defeat.
He said he empathized with both the fans and players, but stressed the club’s desire to respond positively despite the current struggles.
The 40-year-old Portuguese manager reflected on his role, noting that being in charge at Manchester United required him to be “more than a coach.” He spoke about personal growth, emotional control, and the challenges of managing during a poor run of form.
With heavy rain drenching the 40,000-seat Hong Kong Stadium ahead of their next match, Amorim hoped to avoid injuries as the long campaign winds down. “The weather looks like Manchester so we feel at home,” he quipped, adding that staying “professional” and “focused” is key to keeping players safe.