Table of Contents
- Champions League Qualification Target
- Wilcox's Address to Players
- Impact of Amorim's Departure
- Kobbie Mainoo's Future
- Timeline of Amorim's Christmas Fallout
MANCHESTER UNITED players have been informed that their goal for the season is to qualify for the Champions League.
The club's director of football, Jason Wilcox, spoke to the team on Monday, expressing that the season has been “disappointing” thus far.
Manchester United director of football Jason Wilcox addressed the players following Ruben Amorim’s departure
Man Utd stars have been informed that qualifying for the Champions League is the season's goal
However, he attempted to motivate the players by assuring them that a Champions League spot is achievable if they maintain their focus for the remainder of the season.
They currently sit joint sixth with 32 points, with fifth place likely to secure a spot in Europe’s top competition.
A source revealed: “Wilcox addressed the players following Amorim’s departure. He acknowledged that the season has had its disappointments but encouraged the team to unite and strive for better performance in the latter half of the season.
“Qualifying for the Champions League is the objective, and it is within reach. That was the key message.”
The first-team squad is optimistic about achieving success following Amorim’s exit, which they felt was imminent since December 15.
A source mentioned: “Amorim seemed to be impacted by that result, and the atmosphere on the training ground shifted.”
“He displayed a different demeanor that some players noticed. It felt like the beginning of the end.”
Meanwhile, midfielder Kobbie Mainoo, who was sidelined for most of the season under Amorim, is seeking clarity about his future at United.
The source stated: “Kobbie was frustrated with Amorim because he felt he had successfully integrated into the first team by playing a certain way.
“Then suddenly, Amorim instructed him to adopt a completely different style that did not align with his strengths.”
Mainoo was initially keen on leaving United on loan but now desires discussions regarding his long-term prospects.
He currently earns approximately £25,000 a week, but negotiations for a new contract stalled early, leaving both the club and the player at an impasse.
The source continued: “Amorim's departure certainly enhances the likelihood of Kobbie remaining at United, but it is not guaranteed.
“He is seeking assurances from the officials about how they envision his role within the squad and the first team.”
SunSport also recently reported that some Man Utd players are unhappy with the situation at Old Trafford and may seek moves this summer.
A Timeline of Amorim's Christmas Fallout
BY KATHERINE WALSH
SIR JIM RATCLIFFE’S perceived “heated discussion” with Wilcox and CEO Omar Berrada after the 4-1 victory at Molineux on December 8 largely went unnoticed.
The trio was seen engaged in an animated conversation immediately after Wolves scored their equalizing goal shortly after half-time.
United subsequently lost Amad, Bryan Mbeumo, and Noussair Mazraoui to AFCON following the 4-4 draw with Bournemouth, and skipper Bruno Fernandes limped off in the defeat at Villa Park.
Amorim then established his first stance by admitting he might not receive the funds necessary to implement his 3-4-3 formation in his Christmas Eve pre-match conference ahead of the Toon’s visit.
After the 1-0 victory over Newcastle, Amorim made an intriguing comment regarding his inability to reach an agreement with transfer chief Wilcox.
He stated: “I have one perspective, Jason and the board have another – every decision we make needs to find common ground, which is vital.
“You don’t need to cater to the manager entirely because the manager can change, and you need to adapt, but the manager understands the playing style.”
Amorim then appeared visibly displeased when he arrived at Carrington on Friday, January 2. It was the most displeased this reporter has ever seen him, as he typically entered pre-match conferences with a smile and a light-hearted demeanor.
He unexpectedly refused to answer a question and provided brief, pointed responses to others.
When asked why he was unaware of the recruitment situation upon joining United from Sporting in November 2024, he replied, “I don’t want to discuss that. I’m focused on the Leeds game.”
Amorim later expressed that he did not regret his comments before the Newcastle match and was again questioned by the same journalist about any changes regarding the transfer budget. He reiterated, “I don’t want to discuss that.”
After a brief pause, as the United media official sitting next to Amorim began to indicate who would ask the next question, the Portuguese added: “But you are very clever, so…”
Then came the extraordinary outburst at Leeds two days later.
A recent report suggested that Christopher Vivell, United’s head of recruitment, urged Amorim to adjust his system after a particularly detailed explanation
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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