Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has defended his decision to field a much-changed lineup in Sunday’s 4-3 loss at Brentford in the Premier League, insisting the club’s attention is fixated on the Europa League.
Story of the match
The Red Devils fielded their youngest-ever starting lineup in English Premier League history at the Gtech stadium, with an average starting age of 22 years.
Mason Mount gave Ruben Amorim’s side the best possible start with the opener in the 14th minute, before the floodgates opened for the Bees who scored the game’s next four goals.
An own goal by Luke Shaw leveled things before Kevin Schade scored twice, one in each half, to put Brentford 3-1 ahead.
Yoanne Wissa added a fourth in the 74th minute before youngsters Alejandro Garnacho and Amad Diallo scored very late in the game to set up a tense finish, although the Bees held on for a memorable win.
What Amorim said:
“We as a club we need to understand in this moment we have a big responsibility. We have to prepare a squad for different competitions,” Amorim said in a post-match interview.
“I have no doubt that we are playing better. So we have to take all the heat. At this moment we are losing games in the Premier League. We are fighting for the Europa League and Thursday is the most important game for us.”
Man United are 15th on the standings and the defeat on Sunday was their 16th of the league season, a club record.
“It is good for the players that everyone is playing. We want to be competitive. It is really hard, but we are doing the best we can”, he continued.
Can Man United win the Europa League
Despite their dismal league record, Manchester United are the only remaining unbeaten team in Europe this season.
The Red Devils host Spanish side Athletic Bilbao in the second leg of their semifinal encounter, with a 3-0 advantage into the encounter on Thursday.
The winner of the tie is expected to face Tottenham Hotspur or Bodo/Glimt in the final at San Mames on the 21st of May.
Olakitan is a young writer with a strong passion for sports, having gained experience with IndyPress and Nimelssa Press. His enthusiasm for sports inspired him to cover events both within his school and beyond. With a deep understanding of the game and a refined skillset, he brings sports coverage to a broad, global audience in a way that’s engaging and accessible.
