Ruben Amorim voiced his frustration once again following Manchester United’s hard-fought FA Cup victory over Leicester City. Despite securing a place in the fifth round, Amorim remained critical of his team’s performance, stating that the club’s ongoing struggles stem from “everything”—from minor details to major issues. A second-half goal from Joshua Zirkzee and Harry Maguire’s stoppage-time winner helped United overturn Bobby De Cordova-Reid’s opener.
Amorim Unimpressed Despite United’s Progress
Despite advancing in the FA Cup, Amorim attributed United’s lackluster display against Leicester to broader issues within the team. Zirkzee’s introduction helped cancel out De Cordova-Reid’s first-half strike, while Maguire’s controversial late goal sealed the win. However, Amorim dismissed any comparisons to Manchester United’s legendary “Fergie-time” comebacks under Sir Alex Ferguson, asserting that the team’s struggles remain evident.
“We had to believe until the end, but this game has nothing to do with Fergie-time,” Amorim told ITV. “Our performance needs significant improvement—both with and without the ball. The energy levels were poor, especially in the first half. The second half was slightly better, with more pace and better ball-winning, but overall, it wasn’t a convincing display.”
Addressing United’s Issues
The Portuguese manager took accountability for his side’s inconsistencies, emphasizing the need for collective improvement.
“It’s a combination of everything,” he explained. “As the coach, I take responsibility when the team doesn’t perform or progress as expected. We analyze games, look for areas to refine, and work towards improvements.
“Sometimes, it’s the small details—controlling possession, avoiding unnecessary turnovers under pressure. Other times, it’s larger tactical issues. Right now, we need to find solutions, especially at home, where we’ve struggled the most. It’s a tough phase, but we must push forward.”
Controversy Surrounding Maguire’s Late Goal
United were on the verge of suffering their ninth defeat under Amorim and their second loss at Old Trafford within a week. However, Maguire’s last-gasp header secured the victory in dramatic fashion—though not without controversy.
Leicester manager Ruud van Nistelrooy was left furious as replays suggested Maguire was offside when he scored. With no VAR in operation, the assistant referee’s decision stood, denying Leicester the opportunity to push the match into extra time.
Amorim later acknowledged the controversial nature of the winning goal, stating: “The goal was offside. VAR should be available to overturn decisions like that—it’s unfair to the opposition, especially to Ruud.”
While Amorim conceded that his side showed more determination in the second half, he reiterated that the performance was far from satisfactory.
“We showed more energy and some individual contributions made a difference, but overall, we weren’t at our best,” he admitted.
Looking Ahead
With United already securing automatic qualification for the UEFA Europa League last 16, they will have a brief respite before resuming Premier League action. Their next fixture sees them travel to face Tottenham Hotspur on February 16, where Amorim will hope for a much-improved display.
