"We have players capable of winning every match in the Premier League," Amorim said after the defeat at Old Trafford on 17/8. "The team played more aggressively, dared to go one-on-one and pressed high. We also had better ball control. This season will be a different story."
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Coach Ruben Amorim directs during Man Utd's 0-1 loss to Arsenal at Old Trafford, Manchester, UK, in the first round of the Premier League on 17/8/2025. Photo: Reuters |
Coach Ruben Amorim directs during Man Utd's 0-1 loss to Arsenal at Old Trafford, Manchester, UK, in the first round of the Premier League on 17/8/2025. Photo: Reuters
Last season, under Amorim, Man Utd finished 15th - the club's worst finish in the Premier League era. They lost 19 matches, earned 49 points, finished far behind the European Cup qualifying spots, and conceded 62 goals, more than several relegation-threatened teams.
However, the arrival of two new players, Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo this summer, has brought speed and creativity to the attack. In yesterday's match, Cunha stood out, making several runs that tore through Arsenal's midfield and having three shots on target. "Cunha and Mbeumo bring a lot of benefits, helping the team stick to our game plan even when the atmosphere is tense. That will bring many benefits in the future," Amorim commented, adding that he was very pleased with his players' intense pressing and solid ball control.
Man Utd's defense has generally improved from last season, but Altay Bayindir's mistake continues to raise questions about the goalkeeper position. For Man Utd's only conceded goal, the Turkish goalkeeper collided with William Saliba, missed the ball, which allowed defender Ricardo Calafiori to head the rebound into an empty net.
Amorim said the team needs to learn how to deal with physical contact during set pieces. "At corners, players are allowed a lot of contact," he said. "We need to do the same. The goalkeeper must be decisive, either catching the ball or decisively using force to stop the opponent. If the rules allow it, we must also take advantage."
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Matheus Cunha (red shirt) dribbles past Ben White. Photo: AP |
Matheus Cunha (red shirt) dribbles past Ben White. Photo: AP
Sharing his compatriot's view, captain Bruno Fernandes said that Man Utd showed many positive signs. "It's only the first game so it's too early to say it's progress, but we did many things well," he said. "Arsenal didn't create many clear chances, while we defended well and created several opportunities but didn't score. That's what needs improvement."
The Portuguese midfielder also praised the two newcomers, Cunha and Mbeumo, and appreciated the support of the fans at Old Trafford. "When the match ended and we walked into the tunnel, that support gave us hope that this season will be different and better," Fernandes expressed. "The next match is very important, we have to repay the fans."
Fernandes and his teammates will visit Fulham in the second round of the Premier League on 24/8.
Compiled by Hong Duy
