‘Sometimes I Want to Quit’ – Amorim Clarifies Comments After Cup Shock

Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has admitted his emotions got the better of him following Wednesday’s shock EFL Cup defeat to Grimsby Town, but insists he remains committed to the job, Sport360NG reports.

The Portuguese coach caused a stir in the immediate aftermath of the penalty shootout loss to the League Two side, United’s first ever defeat to a fourth-tier club, when he said his team had been “completely lost” and hinted “something has to change.” His comments sparked speculation over whether he was considering his future.

Speaking on Friday, Amorim clarified that his words were born out of frustration rather than a genuine desire to walk away.
“After defeats like that, I speak with my heart,” he said. “Sometimes I hate my players, sometimes I love them. Sometimes I want to quit, other times I want to stay here for 20 years. That’s who I am. I need to manage it better, but I won’t hide my feelings.”

Amorim admitted he understands why such remarks invite scrutiny but stressed he is not prepared to change his approach.
“People tell me to be calmer with the media, but that’s not my way. My passion comes with both good and bad sides. In that moment I was upset and disappointed, I’ll always be myself.”

Asked whether he could guarantee he would still be in charge beyond the weekend, Amorim was cautious:
“That’s my plan, but I can’t promise the future. I’m the Manchester United manager, and I don’t think that will change.”

System Questions

United’s sluggish start to the season, defeats to Arsenal and Grimsby, plus a draw with Fulham, has fuelled criticism of Amorim’s preferred 3-4-3 formation. Some have questioned whether the system suits the players at his disposal.

Amorim, however, insisted the Grimsby defeat was not down to tactics.
“I’ve played most of my career in 4-4-2 and 4-3-3. I’d change if I believed it was right, but I won’t switch to something I don’t believe in. The players would see through that.”

Transfer Talk

Despite the pressure, Amorim still has the backing of United’s owners, who spent around £200m this summer on new forwards Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbuemo and Benjamin Sesko.

Off the pitch, United remain active in the market. Talks continue with Napoli over a loan move for Rasmus Hojlund, while Spanish side Elche have approached the club about left-back Tyrell Malacia. Roma also retain an interest in Jadon Sancho, though coach Gian Piero Gasperini warned his side will not “pray for” the winger to join.

Meanwhile, Alejandro Garnacho is expected to complete his £40m move to Chelsea after United accepted an offer earlier this week.

Focus on Burnley

United return to Premier League action against Burnley at Old Trafford on Saturday, with Amorim urging his players to reset.
“We had a strong pre-season and were improving, but against Fulham for half an hour we were poor, and against Grimsby we failed completely,” he said. “Now it’s a new game, and we must focus on that.”