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Exclusive: Ruben Amorim says Premier League clash with Southampton is ‘more important’ than Liverpool, Arsenal games

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Ruben Amorim has made a bold declaration ahead of Manchester United’s crucial Premier League fixture against Southampton, describing it as “more important” than their recent high-profile matches against Liverpool and Arsenal. Speaking to TNT Sports in an exclusive interview, Amorim emphasized that the team’s performance and attitude against the struggling Saints would reveal more about their potential than the headline-grabbing games against their traditional rivals.

The Portuguese tactician, appointed as United’s manager on November 1, has faced a turbulent start to life at Old Trafford. However, a 2-2 draw against Liverpool at Anfield earlier this month and a nail-biting FA Cup victory on penalties against Arsenal have provided glimpses of hope for the fans. These results came as a much-needed respite following a four-match losing streak across all competitions.

“For me, it’s more important,” Amorim said, referring to the Southampton clash. “We will tell more from our players than in the last two games, so I can say that it’s a really, really important game for me and the club.”

Southampton, currently languishing at the bottom of the Premier League table, might not seem like formidable opponents on paper. However, Amorim is adamant that his players approach the game with the same intensity and focus they demonstrated against Liverpool and Arsenal. He highlighted the importance of commitment, stressing that underestimating the Saints could lead to disastrous consequences.

“Playing at home will create a different environment,” Amorim explained. “The expectations are higher, and the demands will be different. There will be more space to defend, but we have to be prepared to play better with the ball. Against Liverpool, it was a balanced game, but this match will require a different approach. What I want is the same level of commitment from my players. Commitment is non-negotiable.”

Amorim’s tenure at United has been anything but smooth. The team currently sits in 14th place in the Premier League, a far cry from their Champions League ambitions. The struggles are evident, but the former Sporting CP manager insists that he’s not surprised by the challenges he has faced.

“The good thing is that I had this process at my former club,” he said. “The pressure is different, the players are different, and the league is different. But the process of building a team remains the same. I knew what to expect, and I’m confident in the steps we are taking.”

Amorim’s vision for Manchester United’s future is clear. He aims to foster a culture of resilience and adaptability while gradually introducing a more dynamic style of play. However, he acknowledges that patience is vital, as significant transformations cannot happen overnight.

“We need to stay calm in every moment,” Amorim continued. “While commitment is key, it’s not enough on its own. We need to develop a different kind of football, one that aligns with the identity of this club. It will take time, but I believe we’re on the right path.”

The January transfer window has also been a topic of speculation, with United linked to several high-profile players, including PSG striker Randal Kolo Muani. However, Amorim downplayed the possibility of imminent reinforcements, suggesting that the club’s focus lies elsewhere for now.

“It’s not our focus,” he stated. “We need to be strategic about recruitment. We’re changing many things mid-season, and it’s crucial to learn from past mistakes. While we’re always monitoring potential opportunities, transfers aren’t our immediate priority.”

Amorim’s ability to maintain perspective during trying times has been evident. Reflecting on his tenure so far, he pointed to the 3-0 home defeat against Bournemouth as a defining moment, encapsulating both the lows and highs of managing Manchester United.

“The Bournemouth game sums up my experience here,” Amorim said. “Losing 3-0 for the second match in a row was devastating. Yet, at the end, when the fans applauded us, it was both embarrassing and uplifting. It reminded me of the weight of this club—the expectations, the disappointments, and the unwavering support.”

As Manchester United prepare to face Southampton, Amorim’s message to his players and fans is clear: resilience, unity, and commitment are the cornerstones of their journey back to the top. The clash may not carry the same prestige as encounters with Liverpool or Arsenal, but for Amorim, it represents an opportunity to demonstrate the character and resolve required to succeed at the highest level.

With United’s Champions League hopes hanging by a thread and the pressure mounting, Thursday’s fixture is more than just another game. It’s a test of Amorim’s philosophy, the players’ determination, and the club’s ability to navigate one of its most challenging periods in recent history.

“This is the club where I want to stay and win,” Amorim concluded. “We might be disappointing people now, but I believe in what we’re building. The road ahead is long, but with the right mindset, we can achieve great things.”

Manchester United’s faithful will be watching closely, hoping that the manager’s words translate into action on the pitch. As they take on Southampton, the stakes couldn’t be higher for a team desperate to rediscover its identity and pride.

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