Manchester United manager Rúben Amorim has publicly supported striker Rasmus Højlund amidst a wave of criticism, following the team’s disappointing 1-0 defeat to Wolverhampton Wanderers at Old Trafford. This latest setback marked the club’s 15th Premier League loss of the season, making it their worst league performance since the 1989-90 campaign. It was also a historic low for the team in terms of home form, as they registered the highest number of home defeats in a single Premier League season.
The pressure has intensified on Danish forward Rasmus Højlund, who was brought to Manchester United from Italian club Atalanta for a hefty £72 million two years ago. Expectations were high for the young striker, but his form this season has left fans and pundits deeply disappointed. Højlund has found the net only once in 28 appearances across all competitions, a return that has sparked questions about his role and effectiveness in the squad.
Despite the harsh criticism directed at Højlund, Amorim defended his player, refusing to lay the blame solely on the forward’s shoulders. The Portuguese manager stressed that the team’s offensive woes are not the fault of one individual, but rather the result of a broader, collective failure. “We have to improve as a team,” Amorim said, highlighting the need for better coordination and creativity in attack. His comments suggest a recognition that the problem lies deeper within the team’s overall structure and tactics, rather than in the performance of any single player.
Amorim also addressed the team’s overall poor showing against Wolves. He admitted his disappointment with the squad’s inability to capitalize on scoring opportunities and their general lackluster display. The manager expressed clear frustration, not only with the result but also with the manner in which it was obtained. Missed chances and uninspiring performances plagued the match, further dampening the club’s already bleak season.
While many supporters are calling for drastic changes, Amorim’s approach appears focused on rebuilding confidence and fostering unity within the squad. By standing behind Højlund and emphasizing collective responsibility, he is signaling a desire to shield his players from excessive scrutiny and maintain morale within the locker room.
As the season winds down, United’s focus may begin to shift toward regrouping and reassessing their strategy going forward. The team’s historic underperformance will likely prompt significant reflection and changes during the off-season, both on and off the pitch.
