Manchester United manager Rúben Amorim has insisted that securing a return to the Champions League is of greater importance than winning the Europa League title, as his side prepares to face Tottenham in the final on 21 May in Bilbao.
The final offers both troubled Premier League clubs a vital lifeline, with a place in next season’s Champions League and a financial windfall estimated at £70 million awaiting the winner. Both United and Spurs are languishing near the Premier League relegation zone, and defeat would mean missing out on European football entirely next season.
“For me, the Champions League is more important,” Amorim told reporters on Wednesday. “It’s about everything — planning for next season, building the team. We’re supposed to be in the Champions League. The Europa League is not enough for a club like this, and you need to feel that here.
“The best way to get us back to the top quickly is through the Champions League. It’s not just about lifting a trophy — it’s about what the trophy brings.”
Amorim’s time at Old Trafford has been turbulent since his appointment in November, with just six wins in 25 Premier League matches. Despite guiding the team to a dramatic run to the Europa League final, he has not shied away from criticising the squad — even going so far as to describe them as the worst in the club’s history.
However, the Portuguese coach dismissed speculation he might resign if United fall short in Spain. “I can’t just see these results, especially in the Premier League, and not take responsibility,” he said. “But I have a clear vision of what needs to be done. I know where the problems lie, so I’m far from quitting.
“What I’m saying is we need to perform — in the future, if we don’t, someone else will come in.”
Amorim also confirmed reports that he will personally cover travel expenses for the families of his backroom staff to attend the final, a gesture of solidarity amid severe budget cuts at the club. Since Jim Ratcliffe’s minority investment in the club, United have announced 250 redundancies, with up to 200 more expected.
The United boss acknowledged the toll this upheaval has taken on morale, but said the Europa League has offered a rare glimmer of hope. “This season has been tough on everyone — poor results, staffing changes — you can feel it across the club.