I’ll walk away for free – Amorim stunning offer to Man Utd after Europa League lose to Tottenham
Defiant Manager Takes Responsibility for Trophy Drought But Refuses to Quit After Spurs Defeat
In a remarkable show of accountability, Manchester United manager Rúben Amorim has told club executives he will leave without demanding a penny in compensation if they decide to sack him this summer – but insisted he won’t resign voluntarily after Wednesday’s crushing 1-0 Europa League final defeat to Tottenham.
The emotional admission came after a season that saw United crash to their worst-ever Premier League finish (16th) while failing to lift any silverware. Amorim, whose team selection decisions were heavily scrutinized after the loss in Bilbao, faced reporters with surprising candor about his precarious position.
A Manager’s Sacrificial Offer
“If the board and fans decide I’m not the right guy, I will leave without any compensation,” the 40-year-old Portuguese coach declared. “But I will not quit.”
His words carried extra weight given United’s financial constraints without Champions League football next season – a fate sealed when Brennan Johnson’s first-half goal proved enough for Spurs. Reports suggest Amorim’s contract contains a £10m release clause, making his waiver offer particularly significant.
Frustration in Defeat
Amorim cut a frustrated figure after watching his side dominate possession (63%) but fail to convert chances against Tottenham’s resolute defense. “We were the better team but didn’t manage to score,” he lamented. “The players gave everything. Now we must face this pain.”
His decision to start Mason Mount over in-form winger Alejandro Garnacho drew criticism, including from United legend Rio Ferdinand. But Amorim fired back: “Mount changed the semi-final. Who missed our big first-half chance? Garnacho.”
Rebuilding Without Europe’s Elite
With United consigned to Europa Conference League football next term, Amorim admitted transfer plans must adapt: “We have two market strategies. It’s tough for a club like ours to miss the Champions League, but this gives us more time to work and improve in the Premier League.”
As the inquest begins at Old Trafford, Amorim’s future hangs in the balance – but his willingness to fall on his sword without financial demands shows a manager acutely aware of the standards expected at England’s most decorated club. For now, he remains determined to lead the rebuild. “Today wasn’t our day,” he concluded. “But I believe in this project.”
Manchester United manager Rúben Amorim has come under scrutiny for some of his key decisions in the starting XI for the Europa League final against Tottenham Hotspur — particularly the exclusion of Manuel Ugarte and the decision to start Mason Mount in midfield.
One of the most widely questioned moves was benching Ugarte, a player known for his tenacity, ball recovery, and ability to shield the backline. In a match where control of the midfield was expected to be crucial, leaving out such a combative presence raised immediate concerns. Tottenham lined up with a trio of Bentancur, Bissouma, and Sarr — all physically strong, energetic, and capable of dictating tempo. By opting for a midfield without Ugarte, Amorim risked losing the battle in the center of the pitch.
Ugarte’s strength lies in pressing opponents, breaking up attacks, and maintaining midfield discipline — qualities United have lacked in moments throughout the season. Including him alongside Casemiro could have given Bruno Fernandes more license to push forward while maintaining defensive balance. Instead, Casemiro was left to shoulder the bulk of defensive duties, which invited pressure on a backline already featuring the youthful Leny Yoro.
Adding to the criticism is the choice to start Mason Mount. The former Chelsea midfielder has struggled with injuries and form all season, and his selection for such a decisive match was seen by many as a risky call. Mount’s inclusion meant Amorim prioritized attacking intent over midfield solidity, a gamble that might not pay off against a Tottenham side known for their swift counters and midfield aggression.
Mount, naturally more forward-thinking, doesn’t offer the same defensive discipline as Ugarte. His performance leading up to the final had not suggested readiness for a fixture of this magnitude. In tight midfield duels, especially against Tottenham’s aggressive setup, his lack of physicality and defensive presence could turn into a liability.
This decision becomes even more questionable considering United’s structure on the night. With Mazraoui and Dorgu pushing high as wing-backs, the need for a double pivot in midfield was obvious. Ugarte’s ball-winning ability could have covered those spaces, protected the flanks, and disrupted Tottenham’s rhythm.
Amorim’s overall tactical setup showed bravery, but some decisions — particularly the exclusion of Ugarte and the inclusion of Mount — have raised doubts about balance, discipline, and control. If United fail to gain control in midfield or suffer from defensive lapses, these choices will undoubtedly be seen as turning points.
Whether Amorim’s gamble pays off will depend on how well his midfield can cope with Tottenham’s pressure. But ahead of kick-off, these two decisions already stand out as the most controversial — and potentially the most costly — of his Manchester United tenure so far.
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