In the wake of Manchester United’s commanding 3-0 victory over Athletic Club in the Europa League semi-final first leg, manager Rúben Amorim has delivered a stern message to his squad, emphasizing the importance of maintaining focus and consistency as the season progresses.

Maintaining Momentum: Amorim’s Cautionary Stance

Despite the significant advantage heading into the second leg, Amorim cautioned against complacency. He highlighted the unpredictable nature of football, noting that a single event, such as a red card or an early goal, could dramatically alter the course of a match. “This is not done,” Amorim asserted, urging his players to remain vigilant and prepared for the challenges ahead.

Player Rotation and Injury Management

With the Premier League title out of reach and the Europa League representing United’s primary opportunity for silverware, Amorim plans to rotate his squad to manage player fitness. He confirmed that Noussair Mazraoui would be rested due to fatigue, and hinted at giving opportunities to younger talents like Chido Obi, Harry Amass, and Jaydan Kamason in upcoming fixtures.

Individual Performances Under Scrutiny

Amorim praised striker Rasmus Højlund for delivering his best performance under his management but also emphasized the need for continued improvement. Drawing parallels to Harry Maguire’s resurgence, Amorim highlighted the importance of resilience and adaptability, stating that players must understand that fortunes can change quickly in football.

Addressing Nerves and Building Confidence

The manager acknowledged that some players, including Manuel Ugarte and Patrick Dorgu, experienced nerves during the high-stakes match against Athletic Club. He credited seasoned players like Casemiro, Bruno Fernandes, and Harry Maguire for providing leadership and composure, helping to stabilize the team during critical moments.