Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim believes his team are not yet ready to compete in Europe and needs more time to build before being serious Champions League contenders.
United missed out on the Champions League after finishing 15th in the Premier League last season. Their Europa League run ended in disappointment too, with a defeat to Tottenham Hotspur in the final back in May.
Speaking ahead of Wednesday’s League Cup clash against League Two side Grimsby Town, Amorim admitted his side are still in transition:
“I think we were not prepared to play in Europe, that is my feeling. To have strong games in the Champions League and then the Premier League, we need time to develop as a team.”
The Portuguese manager also challenged his players to fight for their spots in the squad, hinting that things could change once competition for places grows stronger.
Poor start to the new season
United have struggled in the new Premier League campaign, losing 1-0 to Arsenal at Old Trafford and drawing 1-1 with Fulham at Craven Cottage.
Amorim wasn’t happy with how his team dropped points at Fulham, blaming their defensive mindset after taking the lead:
“The games are really competitive. We need time to build the base and then move forward. We will reach a moment where Europe will be important so that everybody can play games.”
Injury update on Mazraoui
There was some positive news for fans, as Amorim confirmed defender Noussair Mazraoui is close to returning from a pre-season injury.
“Maybe he is going to return next week, we will see. He is near, we are just finishing some drills with him to be sure he won’t have another problem.”
