Manchester United Nears Decision on Ruben Amorim Amid Europa League Loss, Premier League Struggles

Manchester United concluded a disastrous 2024/25 season with a 1-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League final, sealing their absence from European football next season for only the second time in 35 years. The loss compounds their worst Premier League campaign since 1973/74, leaving the club in 16th place and facing the financial setback of missing out on an estimated £100 million from Champions League participation. Despite the poor results and internal issues, including player injuries and a lack of team identity, the club's board has reaffirmed their support for manager Ruben Amorim, who inherited a difficult situation but has yet to improve performance, with his points per game record falling below that of his predecessor. Players like Luke Shaw have defended Amorim, emphasizing his awareness of the club's deeper problems beyond just tactics, while acknowledging the need for significant changes and shared responsibility among players. Analysts suggest that Amorim's immediate challenge is to restore belief and stabilize the club, with realistic goals shifting from European qualification to achieving top-half league status. Contrasting approaches in the Europa League final highlighted Amorim's reluctance to adapt tactics compared to Tottenham's manager, which contributed to the defeat and sets the stage for a critical summer transfer window under financial constraints.