Ruben Amorim accused of 'trying to get the sack' at Man Utd as Richard Keys questions decision to criticize players

The Red Devils suffered another demoralising defeat at Old Trafford last time out, going down 3-1 against Brighton. Amorim pulled no punches in his post-match assessment, telling reporters: “We are being the worst team maybe in the history of Manchester United. I know that you want headlines, but I'm saying that because we have to acknowledge that and to change that. Here you go, your headlines.”

Amorim’s honesty is to be admired, with seven losses suffered through his 15 games in charge of United, but many have questioned why he decided to share his feelings in public. His “worst team in history” comment is not expected to have gone down well with Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the INEOS co-ownership group.

Richards Keys, who now works as a presenter on beIN Sports, has said in his personal blog of a bold admission from United’s Portuguese coach: “What the hell was Ruben Amorim thinking when he said [his side were the worst team maybe in the history of Manchester United] yesterday? Is he mad? Why would you do that? Isn’t he the man charged with making things better? Trust me – I really didn’t want to talk about United today, but how can I not? ‘We’re the worst side in United’s history’ screamed the Mail’s back page.

“No criticism of them. Every other outlet did the same – whether it was the socials, radio, TV or the rest of the newspaper world. I still can’t fathom what Amorim was trying to achieve. We know United are bad. That’s why you’re there Ruben. It’s your job to fix it – not tell us ‘I only have one way’ and follow up by telling the world your players are sh*t – the very same players you need to help you out of this mess.”

Keys added: “I said a couple of weeks ago I thought he was trying to get the sack. I’m even more convinced now. If I was his boss I’d call him in this morning and give him his wish. Not only does every other team now start on the front foot knowing he believes that – but he’s actually saying to fans – already ripped off by Sunny Jim’s price rises – ‘you mugs – we’re taking your money under false pretences’. My goodness. How bad is it going to get at Old Trafford?”

United, who have picked up positive results under Amorim against arch-rivals Manchester City and Liverpool but sit 13th in the Premier League table, will be back in action on Thursday when playing host to Scottish giants Rangers in the Europa League.