"I'm not naive" - Man United's Amorim hits back at Rooney's criticism of title ambitions
Manager Ruben Amorim stated that achieving victory in the Premier League continues to be the objective for a Manchester United side facing difficulties, even though former United striker Wayne Rooney criticized the coach as "naive" for making such a claim.
Manchester United, who last secured the league title in 2013 under the management of Alex Ferguson, currently occupies the 14th position in the standings and was eliminated from the FA Cup on Sunday following a penalty shootout loss to Fulham.
Amorim, who took over at United in November, emphasized that the club remains dedicated to its ambition of winning the league, despite the unfavorable outcomes.
"I know we're losing games but the goal is to win the Premier League again. I don't know how long it will take. We have a goal and we continue forward no matter what," Amorim told the BBC after Sunday's loss.
Rooney, who won the league five times with United during his playing career, said United were a long way away from challenging for the title.
"I think it's a little naive to say they're looking to win the Premier League because from where they are now. They're a long way off that," he said on the BBC's 'Match of the Day.'
"He says winning the Premier League, how can they compete? To get further up the table, I think that's the next step for them."
When questioned by a reporter regarding Rooney's remarks, Amorim emphasized that the club's objective is to secure the league title, regardless of whether this achievement occurs in the immediate future.
"That is the goal. To be naive is to think we are going to do it this season or be the best contender next season. I know in this moment, everybody knows everything. I was a pundit... I know it's really easy." Amorim said at the post-match press conference.
"Maybe it is not with me but our goal, as a club, is to win the Premier League like we did in the past with all the great glories and legends of this club."
"We are in a difficult moment, and I'm not naive. That's why I'm here, at 40 years old, coaching Manchester United."
United visit Real Sociedad for the first leg of their Europa League round of 16 tie on Thursday.
SportsLigue