The former England forward acknowledged that Amorim would be given time to turn things around but emphasized that expectations remain high.
Wayne Rooney has criticised Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim for what he described as “naive” comments about the club’s Premier League ambitions. Rooney, a former United captain, believes Amorim should focus on immediate improvements rather than long-term title aspirations.
United’s struggles continued on Sunday (March 2, 2025) as they were eliminated from the FA Cup by Fulham in a penalty shootout. Following the match, Rooney, working as a BBC pundit, questioned Amorim’s approach.
“I think it’s a little naive to say they’re looking to win the Premier League,” Rooney said. “From where they are now, they are a long way off that.”
The former England forward acknowledged that Amorim would be given time to turn things around but emphasized that expectations remain high. “It’s not a free hit. He’ll expect more from Manchester United than what we’ve seen so far. He says winning the Premier League is the goal, but how can they compete? The next step is simply moving further up the table.”
Amorim, however, was quick to respond, defending his stance and suggesting that pundits have the luxury of easy criticism.
“The Premier League is our goal,” Amorim stated. “Being naive would be thinking we can do it this season or even be the top contender next season. I understand that right now, everyone seems to know everything. I was a pundit myself after retiring, and I know how easy it is to criticize from a studio.”
The Portuguese coach remained firm in his belief that United must aim high, even if success does not come immediately. “Our objective is to win the Premier League. Maybe it won’t happen with me, but as a club, as a board, that is our goal. We have done it in the past with great legends, and we want to return to that level. We are in a difficult period, but I am not naive. That is why, at 40 years old, I am managing Manchester United.”
United currently find themselves in a challenging situation, struggling for consistency and facing pressure from fans and pundits alike. Amorim’s vision suggests long-term ambition, but Rooney’s remarks highlight the immediate hurdles the team must overcome before even considering a title challenge. As the season progresses, the pressure will mount on Amorim to prove his strategy can yield results sooner rather than later.
