Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim claimed that the Europa League is "so much harder" than the Champions League for a key reason.
Article continues below
Article continues below
Article continues below
Man Utd played 1-1 draw against SociedadFace Arsenal in the Premier League nextAmorim moaned about shorter recovery timeFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
His comments came after United's 1-1 draw with Real Sociedad in the Europa League, leaving his squad with just three days to recover before facing Arsenal in the Premier League. In contrast, Arsenal, who demolished PSV 7-1 in their Champions League last-16 tie on Tuesday, have had two additional days to prepare for the crucial domestic fixture.
AdvertisementGetty Images SportWHAT AMORIM SAID
Acknowledging the impact of a packed fixture schedule, Amorim admitted that his players struggled with fatigue in the closing stages of their match against Real Sociedad.
"We need to survive Sunday. The team was so tired in the last 20 minutes," said Amorim.
One of the biggest hurdles for United this season has been squad depth. Amorim acknowledged that his frequent squad rotations – particularly in Europe – have been necessary to cope with the physical demands of the season.
He added: "I think the biggest problem is to not have all of the players because, in the beginning, people talk about our rotation – especially in Europe, we are changing all the time. It’s because of this, because it’s really hard, and the Europa League is so much harder, in my opinion, than the Champions League. Not the games but the recovery to play Premier League on the weekend, so we have to deal with that.”
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Since making the switch from Sporting CP, Amorim has faced an uphill battle adapting to the intensity of English football. His tenure has been marred by inconsistent performances, with United losing eight of their first 16 league games under his watch. Their recent FA Cup exit at the hands of Fulham added to their woes, compounding the frustration of a season that has fallen far below expectations.
"In the Premier League, every game is really important," Amorim said. "In our moment, we need to win. It’s always a problem when we don’t win so we have to focus on everything at the same time."
AFPWHAT NEXT FOR UNITED?
With a relentless fixture list ahead, Amorim and his squad will need to find a way to manage fatigue and maintain consistency if they are to salvage their season. And defeating the title-chasing Gunners would serve as a much-needed boost as United attempt to climb back into the top half of the table.