Ruben Amorim has hit back at Wayne Rooney after Manchester United’s FA Cup exit to Fulham, insisting that his ambition to win the Premier League is not naive. Amorim, 40, dismissed Rooney’s criticism and reaffirmed his long-term goal for the club, despite United’s struggles this season.
United were eliminated on penalties after a 1-1 draw at Old Trafford, with Fulham’s goalkeeper Bernd Leno making crucial saves against Victor Lindelöf and Joshua Zirkzee. Speaking after the match, Rooney, working as a pundit, questioned Amorim’s aspirations, calling them unrealistic given United’s current form.
Amorim, however, remained firm in his vision. “That is the goal,” he stated. “Being naive would be to think we are going to do it this season or even be the best contender next season. I understand that everyone has their opinions – I was a pundit myself after retiring as a player. It’s easy to comment from the outside.”
The Portuguese manager emphasized that winning the Premier League remains the club’s long-term objective, whether under his leadership or someone else’s. “Our goal is to bring back the glory of this club. We are going through a difficult moment, but I am not naive that’s why I am here, at 40 years old, coaching Manchester United.”
Rooney had questioned Amorim’s remarks, stating, “It’s a little naive to say they’re looking to win the Premier League because, from where they are now, they’re a long way off that.”
On the pitch, Bruno Fernandes equalized in the second half after Calvin Bassey had given Fulham the lead just before the break. However, United failed to find a winner, and in the penalty shootout, Leno’s heroics secured Fulham’s progression to the quarter-finals, where they will face Crystal Palace.
Amorim also defended goalkeeper André Onana, who was criticized for delaying goal kicks late in the match instead of pushing for a decisive goal in normal time. “It was frustration on André’s part,” Amorim explained. “He was trying to read the game. Our team was exhausted after playing with ten men in midweek, so he used that time to allow us to recover before going for the second goal.”
Meanwhile, Harry Maguire’s availability is now in doubt after the defender was forced off with an injury, adding to United’s woes.
Fulham manager Marco Silva praised Leno’s performance, calling him “one of the best in the Premier League.” His heroics ensured Fulham’s place in the next round, while United’s season suffered yet another setback.
