Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has declared that winning the Europa League could serve as a pivotal moment for the club’s future, despite acknowledging it won’t salvage their dismal Premier League campaign. Speaking ahead of United’s Europa League semi-final first leg against Athletic Bilbao, Amorim emphasized the potential long-term impact of securing the trophy, which offers a coveted spot in next season’s Champions League.
United’s season has been marred by inconsistency, with the team languishing in 14th place in the Premier League, guaranteed to record their lowest points tally in the competition’s history. However, their European form has been a stark contrast, remaining unbeaten in both the Champions League and Europa League this season. Amorim, who took charge in November 2024, sees the Europa League as a lifeline to restore confidence and reshape the club’s trajectory.
“Everybody knows it’s really important for our season, but we know nothing is going to save our season,” Amorim said at a press conference in Bilbao. “This can be huge—winning a trophy, getting in the Champions League to play European games next year could change a lot of things in our club in the summer.”
A Europa League victory would not only deliver Amorim his first trophy since joining United but also provide a financial boost and enhance the club’s appeal to top transfer targets. Despite their domestic struggles, Amorim remains confident in United’s pulling power. “It’s Manchester United. What I feel is that there are a lot of players that want to play for our club,” he said, dismissing concerns that missing out on European football would deter signings.
The Portuguese manager highlighted the broader implications of a potential triumph, suggesting it could accelerate the squad overhaul he envisions. With players like Marcus Rashford and Antony on loan and others like Andre Onana facing uncertain futures, Amorim is already planning for his first full season. Reports indicate United are eyeing targets such as Wolves’ Matheus Cunha and Ipswich’s Liam Delap to bolster their attack.
However, Amorim was clear that a Europa League title would be a “shortcut” rather than a complete fix. “This is more of a shortcut to go to the European Cup games. Nothing more. The problems we need to solve in a different way with more time,” he noted, pointing to deeper structural issues, including the team’s persistent struggles in front of goal.
United’s journey to the semi-finals has been dramatic, highlighted by a thrilling 7-6 aggregate victory over Lyon in the quarter-finals, sealed by a 5-4 win at Old Trafford. Yet, Amorim remains cautious, aware that their defensive frailties and reliance on late goals could prove costly against a formidable Athletic Bilbao side.
Despite injury concerns, with key defender Diogo Dalot potentially sidelined for the season and others like Lisandro Martinez and Joshua Zirkzee already ruled out, Amorim expressed confidence in his squad’s readiness. “They are prepared. Every player is an international. The context of this season is really complicated, but they are excited to be here,” he said.