Ruben Amorim had no time for Wayne Rooney’s critique after Manchester United crashed out of the FA Cup on penalties to Fulham. The Red Devils’ boss fired back at the club legend’s claim that he was “naive” for saying United’s long-term goal is to win the Premier League.
“That is the goal,” Amorim said. “Being naive is thinking we’ll do it this season or be the best contender next season. But this club this board wants to get back to the top. Maybe it’s not with me, but that’s the mission.”
Rooney, working as a pundit, had questioned the realism of that ambition given United’s current struggles. But Amorim, still just 40 and already leading one of the world’s biggest clubs, was having none of it.
United’s FA Cup dreams ended in agony as Bruno Fernandes’ equalizer wasn’t enough, with Victor Lindelof and Joshua Zirkzee missing their penalties. Bernd Leno stood tall for Fulham, securing their spot in the quarter-finals against Crystal Palace.
The game also raised questions about Andre Onana, who slowed the tempo late on instead of pushing for a winner. Amorim defended his goalkeeper, pointing out how exhausted the team was after playing midweek with 10 men.
Adding to United’s woes, Harry Maguire was forced off with an injury, leaving fans fearing another setback.
As Fulham celebrated, United’s season teetered on the brink. Amorim insists the long-term vision remains clear but for now, the pain of another cup exit is all too real.
