Cherries to be picked, and issues to be solved: Amorim admits problems ahead of Bournemouth tie

Ruben Amorim accepts criticism from Manchester United legends, insisting the real issue is simple: United are not winning enough.

Speaking ahead of Monday's Premier League clash with Bournemouth, the Red Devils' boss coach acknowledged that former players are entitled to their views while the club continues to fall short of its historic standards.

"When you manage Manchester United and you're underachieving, criticism is normal," Amorim said. "We should have more points this season. That's a fact, and I accept it."

United could climb into the top six for a second straight week with a win - something they have not managed since the end of the 2023/24 season. Even so, Amorim knows that progress of this kind barely registers at a club shaped by Sir Alex Ferguson's era of relentless success.

Paul Scholes recently questioned whether Amorim is "the right man" for the job, arguing that his system does not suit United's traditional use of wingers. Amorim, however, dismissed suggestions that such criticism makes his role harder.

"Not winning is the issue," he said bluntly. "If you are winning, there is no issue. The problem is me as a manager not doing well enough, and I can accept that."

Kolo Toure exposes Pep: 'I'm so surprised...'

Amorim also faces mounting challenges on the pitch. Defensive injuries could force him to rely on teenagers Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven in the coming weeks, while uncertainty surrounds several players' availability due to AFCON commitments.

Meanwhile, questions continue over Kobbie Mainoo's limited role. The midfielder has yet to start a Premier League game this season and is keen on a loan move to secure regular minutes.

The Portuguese remains open to discussion but firm in his principles.

"I just want my players happy," he said. "I'm open to talking with any player. I have my ideas, and I won't change them if I don't believe in them, but I love that conversation."

For Amorim, the equation is clear. Silence the critics, and everything else follows.

PREMIER LEAGUE - ROUND 16

Saturday

Chelsea - Everton 2-0 (2-0)

/Palmer 21, Gusto 45/

Liverpool - Brighton 2-0 (1-0)

/Ekitike 1, 60/

Burnley - Fulham 2-3 (1-2)

/Ugochukwu 21, Sonne 86 - Smith Rowe 9, Bassey 31, Wilson 58/

Arsenal - Wolverhampton 2-1 (0-0)

/Johnstone 70 (og), Mosquera 90+4 (og) - Arokodare 90/

Sunday

Crystal Palace - Manchester City 0-3 (0-1)

/Haaland 41, 88 pen, Foden 69/

Nottingam Forest - Tottenham 3-0 (1-0)

/Hudson-Odoi 28, 50, Sangare 79/

Sunderland - Newcastle 1-0 (0-0)

/Woltemade 46 (og)/

West Ham - Aston Villa 2-3 (2-1)

/Fernandes 1, Bowen 24 - Mavropanos 9 (og), Rogers 50, 79/

Brentford - Leeds United 1-1 (0-0)

/Henderson 71 - Calwert-Lewin 82/

Monday

23.00: (1.83) Man.Utd. (4.00) Bournemouth (4.05)

*** odds are subject to change ***