Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has underlined that securing a return to the UEFA Champions League is more important than lifting his first trophy in charge of the Red Devils when they face Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League final on May 21 in Bilbao.
With both Premier League giants languishing near the bottom of the table, victory in Spain offers not just silverware but a direct route into next season’s lucrative Champions League group phase, an outcome estimated to be worth at least £70 million to United.
“For me, the Champions League is more important,” Amorim said during a pre-final press conference on Wednesday.
“For everything, to prepare for next season. We are supposed to be in the Champions League. The Europa League here is not enough, and you have to have that feeling.
The best way to help us get to the top in a few years is the Champions League. It’s not about the title—it’s about what this title brings.”
Amorim’s comments highlight the financial and sporting importance of winning the final, with the loser likely to miss out on European football entirely next season.
The Portuguese tactician took over in November, but has struggled to inspire consistent results, managing just six wins in 25 Premier League games. His blunt assessments, at one point labelling the current squad the “worst in the club’s history”, have drawn attention, but Amorim insists he’s committed to the long-term project.
“I cannot see the team having these results, especially in the Premier League, and see nothing or not take responsibility,” he said.
“I have a clear idea of what to do. I understand the problems of the team, so I’m far from quitting.
What I’m saying is that we need to perform. In the future, we need to perform, or else they will change us.”
Amorim also confirmed reports that he will personally cover travel costs for the families of his backroom staff heading to Bilbao—a gesture of solidarity during a turbulent period for the club.
