Ruben Amorim has addressed Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s recent assertion that several Manchester United players are either “overpaid or not good enough” as his team prepares for a crucial Europa League clash against Real Sociedad.

The two sides enter the second leg at Old Trafford with the aggregate score tied at 1-1. United must secure a victory to keep their European ambitions alive, especially with their Premier League struggles making qualification through league position uncertain.

Amorim’s squad is already out of contention in domestic cup competitions and languishing in 14th place in the Premier League. As a result, the Europa League remains their last chance to claim silverware this season.

This fixture follows a week in which Ratcliffe conducted interviews with multiple media outlets, including Gary Neville on The Overlap and the BBC. The British billionaire was candid about United’s current state, openly criticizing certain players for not meeting the club’s high standards or earning salaries that outweigh their contributions. He even went as far as naming five specific individuals.

When asked about Ratcliffe’s comments, Amorim remained composed, stating that both he and his players have the opportunity to shift public perception by delivering results on the pitch.

“If you’re a top player at this club, or even in my case – with some saying I’m not good enough for United – the only way to change that narrative is through performances,” Amorim remarked.

“I see in training that my players are desperate to prove themselves. This upcoming match is a huge opportunity to inject fresh energy into our campaign. While the outcome may not significantly alter next season’s plans, it could set a positive tone for how we close out this one.”

On his rapport with Ratcliffe, Amorim described their communication as direct and transparent: “From the very first day, our relationship has been strong. We are both very straightforward people, which makes discussions honest and productive.”

He added, “I’ve always felt supported by the board, particularly by Sir Jim. While I won’t disclose the specifics of our conversations, they are always clear and to the point.”

Ratcliffe, in turn, has been vocal in his admiration for Amorim, calling him an “exceptional young manager” who is leading the team effectively. Chief executive Omar Berrada even expressed his hope that Amorim would still be at the helm when United move into their proposed £2 billion stadium in five years.

Acknowledging this endorsement, Amorim said, “I was already aware of their confidence in me. They’ve spoken to me privately after matches to reinforce their support, but hearing it publicly is encouraging. That said, I maintain my stance – results matter most, and our squad must improve.”

Regarding United’s ambitious stadium plans, Amorim shared his enthusiasm but kept his focus on the present: “The project sounds incredible, as it should. But that’s five years down the line. Right now, our priority is winning games at Old Trafford and achieving success in the near term.”

Bayern Munich have joined Real Madrid in expressing strong interest in Manchester United full-back Diogo Dalot, with both clubs considering a summer move for the Portuguese star, sources reveal.

Dalot’s Consistency Draws European Giants’ Attention

Bayern’s newly appointed manager Vincent Kompany, like Real Madrid’s scouting team, has been particularly impressed by Dalot’s reliability and versatility. His ability to perform consistently across multiple seasons has placed him on the radar of Europe’s elite clubs.

Real Madrid’s interest in Dalot has been longstanding, with the LaLiga powerhouse weighing up options should they fail to secure their primary right-back target, Trent Alexander-Arnold. Alongside Dalot, Bayer Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpong remains a candidate for Los Blancos.

A Model of Fitness and Discipline

Dalot’s impeccable fitness record is another factor making him a desirable target. Since February 2023, he has not missed a single game due to injury, with his previous setback dating back to 2019. Inspired by Cristiano Ronaldo’s commitment to physical conditioning, Dalot has meticulously honed his diet, recovery, and training regimen, making him one of the most dependable figures in United’s squad.

Beyond his endurance, Dalot’s discipline on the pitch stands out. Throughout his tenure at Manchester United, he has only received two suspensions, further highlighting his composure and tactical awareness.

Versatility and Impact at United

One of Dalot’s greatest strengths is his adaptability. Having played under multiple managers, he has seamlessly operated on both flanks, proving indispensable in defense while also contributing offensively. To date, he has registered seven goals and 13 assists in 15,686 minutes for the Red Devils.

His stellar performances in the 2023/24 season earned him the Players’ Player of the Season award, demonstrating the high regard in which his teammates hold him.

Statistical Excellence in the Premier League

Dalot has clocked 2,307 Premier League minutes this season, the most by any United outfield player and second only to goalkeeper Andre Onana. His defensive contributions further reinforce his value:

• 33 interceptions (11th among Premier League defenders)
• 56 tackles (10th in the league)
• 29 aerial duels won (4th at United)
• 30 headed clearances (4th at United)
• 9 blocks (3rd at United)
• 52 clearances (5th at United)

His ability to seamlessly switch between his preferred right-back position and the left flank makes him a prized asset, a quality that has not gone unnoticed by Bayern and Real Madrid.

United’s Defensive Depth and Dalot’s Future

With Manchester United securing the signings of Noussair Mazraoui and Patrick Dorgu in recent transfer windows, they now have considerable depth at full-back. This could make Dalot a sellable asset despite his three years remaining on his contract.

As speculation intensifies, Dalot remains a crucial figure in United’s setup. However, with two of Europe’s biggest clubs closely monitoring his situation, his future at Old Trafford could take an interesting turn in the coming months.

Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has made a bold statement, claiming that some players within the squad are both overpaid and not up to the required standard for the club.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with the BBC to mark his first year as co-owner, Ratcliffe didn’t hold back as he assessed the state of the club. His remarks come at a time when United sits 14th in the Premier League table, with fans voicing frustrations over the team’s performances and club management.

During the conversation, Ratcliffe specifically mentioned several high-profile players that his administration inherited, including Casemiro, Rasmus Hojlund, and Andre Onana, along with wingers Antony and Jadon Sancho—both currently out on loan. When questioned about whether these players were of the caliber needed at Manchester United, Ratcliffe admitted that not all of them met the required standards. He also revealed that the club’s wage bill stands at a staggering £250 million per year.

“Some are not good enough and some are probably overpaid,” Ratcliffe stated. “However, reshaping the squad into one that we are fully responsible and accountable for will take time.”

Big-Money Signings Under Scrutiny

Among the players highlighted, Jadon Sancho remains a financial burden for United, with the club still owing £17 million for his transfer from Borussia Dortmund, despite him returning to the German side on loan. He initially arrived for £73 million but failed to live up to expectations and fell out with former manager Erik ten Hag before being loaned to Chelsea at the start of the current season. United still covers half of his wages.

Brazilian winger Antony, who arrived from Ajax for £81.5 million, is currently on loan at Real Betis after struggling to make an impact at Old Trafford. Midfielder Casemiro, signed for £70 million in 2022, along with Danish striker Rasmus Hojlund (£72 million) and Cameroon goalkeeper Andre Onana (£47.2 million), have also faced criticism for their performances.

Financial Adjustments and Fan Backlash

Ratcliffe’s tenure has not been without controversy, with his cost-cutting measures sparking outrage among fans. A mid-season ticket price hike saw home match tickets rise to £66, while staff cuts and the removal of free lunches added to the discontent. Ratcliffe justified these actions, saying they were necessary to stabilize the club financially, warning that United was on track to run out of money by the end of the year.

“Some of these decisions are unpopular, but they are essential to put Manchester United back on stable footing,” he said. “If fans want to see us winning trophies again, we have to make these changes. Our priority should be investing in the best players rather than spending money on free lunches.”

Ratcliffe also hinted at “modest price increases” for next season but promised to maintain last year’s pricing for under-16s.

Backing for Head Coach Ruben Amorim

On the pitch, Ratcliffe remains firmly behind head coach Ruben Amorim, who took charge in November following Erik ten Hag’s departure. Despite United losing nine of their 26 matches under Amorim and sitting a staggering 36 points behind league leaders Liverpool, Ratcliffe is convinced of his ability.

“If I look at the squad available to Ruben, I think he’s doing a really good job,” Ratcliffe stated. “He is an outstanding young manager, and I believe he will be here for a long time.”

He attributed the club’s struggles to an extensive injury list, which has left Amorim managing with a depleted squad. “How many players on the bench against Arsenal did fans even recognize? We are down to the last 10 or 11 first-team players,” Ratcliffe noted. “Despite the challenges, Ruben is doing a fantastic job, and we are starting to see glimpses of what he can bring to the team.”

As Manchester United looks to rebuild under new leadership, it remains to be seen whether Ratcliffe’s bold approach will yield success or further divide an already frustrated fanbase.