Amorim: No Champions League? That's a blessing in disguise
KUALA LUMPUR: Ruben Amorim has vowed to rebuild Manchester United after what he admitted was one of the club's darkest seasons in recent memory.
The Portuguese manager is hoping Wednesday's friendly against the Asean XI at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil will mark the beginning of a new era for the fallen English giants.
Since taking over from Erik ten Hag in November, Amorim has struggled to steady the ship - managing just eight Premier League wins as United finished a dismal 15th in the table.
The pain was compounded by a 1-0 loss to Tottenham in the Europa League final on May 22, capping their worst campaign in over 50 years.
Amorim, 39, has since issued an apology to fans and players, insisting that "better days are coming".
Speaking at a pre-match press conference in Kuala Lumpur on Tuesday, Amorim said the absence of Champions League football next season might actually work in their favour.
"When you are at Manchester United, people expect you to win, to be at the top," he said.
"But we need to think small - win the next game, then build from there. That's how we get back.
"Not being in the Champions League could help us. We'll have time to prepare better, focus more, build something long-term. It can be an advantage."
Amorim, who has brought a large group of young players for the Asia Tour, is keen to shield them from the pressure that comes with playing for United.
"Sometimes we push the kids too fast. Social media, expectations, it's a lot. I don't want to name names, but I believe in all of them. We'll protect them, give them the tools, and let them surprise us."
The manager added that he is overwhelmed by the support shown by United fans in Malaysia and urged his players to repay that faith.
"The passion here is unbelievable. Just like at Old Trafford, you can feel it," he said.
"We know what the fans want - to see us win, to see us perform. We owe them that."
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