Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim has announced he will deliver an on-pitch apology to fans at Old Trafford following the team’s final Premier League match against Aston Villa on Sunday.
The gesture comes at the end of a dismal season for the Red Devils, marked by their worst domestic performance since the 1973-74 relegation campaign and a Europa League final loss to Tottenham in Bilbao, which extinguished hopes of Champions League qualification.
The club will also miss out on European football next season for only the second time since 1990. Despite the turbulent campaign and growing unrest aimed at the club’s owners, the Glazer family, and minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s recent job cuts, Amorim insists on upholding the tradition of a post-match lap of appreciation. “It will be an apology, I think that’s clear,” the 40-year-old former Sporting CP manager said. “I will be honest with the fans and say what is in my mind and especially my heart.
“With fans planning a pre-match protest march to Old Trafford to voice their frustration with the club’s management, Amorim acknowledged the challenge of addressing supporters. “It’s tradition, and we have to face it,” he said. “It will be the biggest mistake if we don’t do that. I know the manager addresses the public, and I will do that—it’s the least I can do.”
While he has not finalized his remarks, Amorim emphasized the importance of connecting with fans during this difficult time, stating, “If ever there was a season that we need to do it, it’s this one.”
Club officials remain confident that Amorim, despite the season’s setbacks, is the right leader to steer Manchester United toward a revival.